Esteghlal coach criticizes refereeing after Tehran Derby

Following the 107th Tehran Derby between Esteghlal and Persepolis, Esteghlal head coach Sohrab Bakhtiari-Zadeh expressed mixed feelings regarding the match performance and officiating. While praising the quality of the game and the entertainment provided to spectators, Bakhtiari-Zadeh raised concerns about recent refereeing decisions, specifically noting a missed penalty for Mohammad Hossein Eslami and previous incorrect yellow cards.

Bakhtiari-Zadeh noted that while Persepolis controlled the midfield during the first half, Esteghlal improved in the second half through tactical changes. He also addressed fan behavior, condemning unprofessional actions such as throwing bottles or using lasers in the stands, calling for mutual respect among supporters.

Prior to the match, the coach had emphasized a strategy of playing with courage and adhering to modern football principles, expressing confidence in his team's defensive structure and their ability to compete at a high level against their traditional rivals.