TEHRAN – Esteghlal started the 12th edition of the Iran Professional League with a victory over newly-promoted Aluminium Hormozgan.

 

In the match held in Tehran’s Azadi Stadium on Friday, Fabio Januario, who has returned to Esteghlal after two years, opened the goal-scoring with a long-range shot 10 minutes after the second half. 

 

The defending champion Sepahan also beat Mes of Kerman in Isfahan. Hadi Tamini scored for Sepahan with the only goal, in the 47th minute.

 

Elsewhere, Damash was held to a 1-1 draw by Foolad, and Traktorsazi and Saipa played out to a goalless draw. 

 

Persepolis had already defeated Sanat Naft 1-0 in Abadan.