Tractor SC Iranian Premier League campaign

Tractor SC began its 26th Iranian Premier League season with an opening match against Paykan FC at Yadgar-e Emam Stadium. Ahead of the fixture, head coach Javad Nekounam noted that while the team retained key players and added new talent, limited time for tactical training remained a challenge. Nekounam also indicated that negotiations for a Spanish assistant coach were ongoing.

Following consecutive victories against Paykan and Sepahan, the team prepared for a high-stakes match against Persepolis FC. Due to circumstances, the match was scheduled to be held without fans. Coach Nekounam implemented significant lineup changes, including the inclusion of Mehdi Shiri and Seyed Mehdi Hosseini in the midfield. Additionally, attention remained focused on goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand amid discussions regarding his military service status.

As the Week 3 Persian Gulf Pro League match approached, both teams entered the fixture with perfect starts. Persepolis manager Mehdi Tartar faced defensive difficulties following a groin injury to left-back Abolfazl Jalali. In contrast, Tractor maintained depth in that position with Mohammad Naderi and Milad Zakipour.

Following the match in Tabriz, Tractor secured a victory over Persepolis, causing the latter to lose its position at the top of the league table. The defeat has sparked scrutiny regarding Persepolis’s roster stability and coaching staff changes. Analysts have questioned the impact of young player Amirhossein Mohammadi, and discussions have emerged regarding whether the team requires new midfield signings or more patience to achieve cohesion following extensive preseason adjustments.