Kheybar Khorramabad claimed a 2-1 home victory over Esteghlal Khozestan in the Iran Pro League on October 18, 2026, with a strong first-half display laying the foundation for all three points. Kheybar scored early and added a second after the break before surviving a late spell of pressure from the visitors.

Match overview

Kheybar Khorramabad started brightly at the Takhti Stadium and took the lead in the 12th minute when Sajjad Ashouri latched onto a through ball and finished confidently past the goalkeeper. The home side continued to press and created several half-chances, while Esteghlal Khozestan struggled to find rhythm in the attacking third.

The second goal arrived in the 57th minute through Mehdi Zarei, who struck from the edge of the box after a neat lay-off. Esteghlal Khozestan responded well and pulled one back in the 76th minute when Hossein Karimi converted a cross from the right. The visitors pushed for an equalizer in the final stages, but Kheybar’s defense held firm.

Key moments

• 12' — Sajjad Ashouri gives Kheybar Khorramabad an early lead with a composed finish.
• 57' — Mehdi Zarei doubles the advantage with a strike from the edge of the area.
• 76' — Hossein Karimi pulls one back for Esteghlal Khozestan.
• 90+3' — Kheybar clear a late corner to secure the win.

Tactical story

Kheybar’s high pressing and direct attacking approach caused problems for Esteghlal Khozestan throughout the first hour. The home side won possession in dangerous areas and moved the ball quickly, preventing their opponents from settling into a comfortable defensive shape. The two-goal cushion allowed Kheybar to manage the game with greater control.

Esteghlal Khozestan improved after their goal, using width and set pieces to apply pressure. However, Kheybar’s midfield dropped deeper to protect the lead and limited clear sights of goal in the closing minutes.

Standout players

Sajjad Ashouri was instrumental for Kheybar Khorramabad, opening the scoring and stretching the defense with his movement. Mehdi Zarei’s goal proved to be the winner, while Hossein Karimi was Esteghlal Khozestan’s most dangerous player and gave his side hope with a well-taken finish.

Season impact

The three points boost Kheybar Khorramabad’s position in the Iran Pro League table and reward their positive home approach. Esteghlal Khozestan will take some encouragement from their second-half response, but they will need to start games more strongly if they are to climb the standings. Kheybar’s ability to protect a lead at home could prove valuable as the season progresses.