TEHRAN – Branko Ivankovic says the football match between Iranian giants Persepolis and Esteghlal is the biggest derby in Asia. Iran Professional League (IPL) leaders Persepolis will face Esteghlal on Thursday and a win against the arch-rivals will steer them to the title for the second successive year. The Croat says it can be considered […]
TEHRAN – Branko Ivankovic says the football match between Iranian giants Persepolis and Esteghlal is the biggest derby in Asia.
Iran Professional League (IPL) leaders Persepolis will face Esteghlal on Thursday and a win against the arch-rivals will steer them to the title for the second successive year.
The Croat says it can be considered as the biggest derby in Asia and even most enthusiastic game in the world.
“We are very happy for the match against Esteghlal and are proud of playing in Tehran derby. Esteghlal have advanced to the Hazfi Cup final and they moved up to the third place and and it explains they are a better team compared to the start of the season,” Ivankovic said.
“Persepolis’s players will do their best against Esteghlal and we are well-prepared for the match. I think it’s the biggest derby in Asia and also is the world’s most enthusiastic match,” the former Iran coach added.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been invited to Tehran to attend the match at the Azadi Stadium.
“I’m very happy that FIFA President is going to watch the match in the stadium and it shows how important the match is. I hope that we will have a good performance in front of the President,” Ivankovic concluded.
