Esteghlal FC hosts Al-Wasl FC at Azadi Stadium in a match where Al-Wasl has the psychological advantage following their emphatic 7-1 victory earlier this season. Esteghlal, playing on home ground, will look to improve defensively and utilize their possession style to control the game. However, Al-Wasl's aggressive pressing and rapid transitions often catch opponents off-guard, making this a highly unpredictable fixture.
Check out our complete thoughts below.
These are our top betting tips and predictions for the match.
Considering both teams' scoring patterns, the Over 2.5 goals market is attractive, as previous encounters have seen high goal totals, especially from Al-Wasl.
Both teams have shown scoring capabilities in recent matches, but Esteghlal’s defensive frailties may allow Al-Wasl to score, making Both Teams to Score (BTTS) a viable option.
Al-Wasl FC appears to be the stronger side, especially considering their previous victory and current form. A -1.5 Asian handicap might be appropriate to consider, reflecting their edge over Esteghlal FC.
Al-Wasl FC showed dominance early in their last game, and a similar pattern could unfold, with a probable first-half lead translating into a full-time victory.
On November 26, Esteghlal FC hosts Al-Wasl FC at Azadi Stadium in a decisive AFC Cup clash. Given Al-Wasl’s previous 7-1 victory over Esteghlal and their current winning streak, they are expected to secure a win or at least a draw, with multiple goals likely. The match features contrasting styles, with Esteghlal relying on possession and counter-attacks, while Al-Wasl prefers quick, aggressive play. Tactical differences could see Al-Wasl press high and exploit defensive gaps, pushing for an early lead and maintaining dominance. Esteghlal will aim to stabilize their defense and capitalize on home advantage.
In their most recent confrontation on September 17, 2025, Al-Wasl defeated Esteghlal 7-1 at Zabeel Stadium, showcasing their attacking prowess and tactical superiority. Historically, Al-Wasl holds a 100% winning record in head-to-head meetings with Esteghlal, indicating a significant psychological edge.
There are no significant injury reports for either team ahead of this match, allowing both sides to field their strongest lineups.
Expected formations are a 4-3-3 for Esteghlal FC, emphasizing possession and wing play, while Al-Wasl FC is likely to deploy a 4-1-4-1, focusing on a strong midfield presence and quick counter-attacks.
Esteghlal FC's form has been inconsistent, winning only 33% of their last 12 games, and suffering heavy defeat in their recent encounter against Al-Wasl. Conversely, Al-Wasl FC is in excellent form, with four consecutive wins and a dominant previous victory that boosts confidence heading into this match.
See below all the main information for this match.
Esteghlal FC will try to leverage their home advantage at Azadi Stadium, but their recent form suggests vulnerability. Al-Wasl FC, with a stellar head-to-head record, looks set to continue their winning streak, making them the favorites to prevail in this crucial AFC Cup clash.
Al-Wasl FC is coming into this fixture with strong recent form, having won their last four games and a convincing previous encounter against Esteghlal FC. Esteghlal, however, need to improve their defensive setup after recent losses, which could influence the final result.
The scale of the upcoming match leans favorably towards Al-Wasl FC, especially given their recent dominant win by a 7-1 margin in their last encounter. Esteghlal will need to tighten their defense and capitalize on home ground to turn the tables.
