The semi-annual derby between Tehran’s two big soccer teams, Esteqlal and Persepolis, ended December 5 in a goalless tie.
The record for the matches is 29 wins by Persepolis, 26 wins for Esteqlal and 51 ties.
Much of the post-game commentary focused on how little offense there was as both teams appeared concerned only to stop any attack by the other team. It appeared they wanted a draw. It is possible the regime ordered a draw for fear of violence at a touchy time politically. The game was moved to Arak so the streets of Tehran would not fill with fans. Only 8,000 fans bothered to show. But in the stadium, they threw rocks at each other.