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Sepahan FC approaches this game with robust defensive organization and a balanced attack, while Esteghlal FC relies on structured counters and resilient defending. The tactical contrast—possession for Sepahan vs counter-attacks for Esteghlal—may decide the outcome, favoring the home side with their recent form.
Check out our complete thoughts below.
These are our top betting tips and predictions for the match.
A safe option is backing Sepahan FC or a draw with a focus on under 3.5 goals, given their recent defensive solidity and close head-to-head results.
Expect a potentially tense game with under 3.5 goals, as both teams prioritize defense in recent fixtures.
The first half is likely to be cautious with a balanced approach; a draw at halftime and full-time prediction is reasonable.
Both teams have demonstrated offensive capabilities, but recent matches often lean towards lower scoring due to defensive strengths.
On January 1, 2026, Sepahan FC are favored to secure a win or at least draw against Esteghlal FC, supported by their recent form and home advantage. The match is expected to be tight, with under 3.5 goals likely, due to solid defenses and cautious gameplay.
Sepahan has historically outperformed Esteghlal at home, with recent clashes favoring Sepahan, including last season’s decisive 3-1 victory. Esteghlal's last win was in away fixtures, but overall, the record favors Sepahan in this fixture.
No significant injuries reported for either side, maintaining both teams' strong lineups from recent matches.
Expected formations are 4-2-3-1 for Sepahan and 4-3-3 for Esteghlal. Both teams may emphasize possession and disciplined pressing, with Sepahan likely focusing on maintaining possession and building from the back, while Esteghlal could look for quick counters.
Sepahan's recent form is impeccable, with consecutive wins and stable defensive performances, whereas Esteghlal's form has been more inconsistent, especially away from home.
See below all the main information for this match.
The match between Sepahan FC and Esteghlal FC on January 1, 2026, at Naghsh-e-Jahan Stadium is expected to be tightly contested. Sepahan's recent dominance at home and strong defensive record suggest they will be challenging Esteghlal's resilience, but the match could end in a draw with under 3.5 goals.
Sepahan FC has been strong recently, especially at home, with a high clean sheet percentage and consistent form. Esteghlal, meanwhile, has shown resilience, but their away form indicates vulnerability. Tactical nuances could be decisive in this closely matched fixture.
Sepahan's balanced playing style, with a focus on possession and controlled attacking moves, contrasts with Esteghlal's more counter-attacking approach. This tactical variation could influence the match dynamics, with Sepahan likely seeking to dominate possession while Esteghlal might aim for quick counters.
Key absences are not specified, but Sepahan's recent performances at home suggest their likely lineup will emphasize their solid defensive structure and disciplined midfield. Esteghlal's squad rotation suggests a cohesive away strategy, possibly focusing on quick counter-attacks.
The head-to-head history indicates Sepahan has been more successful, with more wins at home and overall dominance in previous fixtures. Recent form supports a favorable prediction for Sepahan, although Esteghlal's resilience should not be underestimated.