Esteghlal dominates Maham Novin Tehran 5-1 in pre‑season friendly

Esteghlal FC opened its 2026‑27 season preparations with a closed‑door friendly against Maham Novin Tehran at the Nasser Hajazi training camp on 4 Mordad 1405 (late August). The match was played in three 30‑minute periods to give both squads ample playing time. Esteghlal fielded a mix of experienced players and recent signings, with captain Saleh Hardani wearing the armband.

The host side took an early lead and finished the first half‑hour three‑nil, with Saeed Sarakhizan scoring in the 5th minute, Ismail Qoli‑zadeh adding a second in the 21st, and Mohammad‑Hossein Islami netting the third after a high pass from Arif Aghasi. A fourth goal came from Mehran Ahmadi in the second period, followed by a fifth by Saeed Sarakhizan in the final period. Maham Novin pulled one consolation goal back before the final whistle. The result underscores Esteghlal’s attacking depth ahead of the upcoming Persian Gulf Pro League campaign.