TEHRAN - The 24th week of the Iran’s Persian Gulf Pro League (PGPL) concluded with victories for both Esteghlal and Persepolis, maintaining the Blues' one-point lead at the top of the table. With just six matches remaining, the title race is heating up, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.

Both Esteghlal and Persepolis now face a pivotal week, as they prepare to go head-to-head with fellow powerhouses Sepahan and Tractor. The team that emerge victorious from these crucial encounters will hold a significant advantage in the title race.

After the 25th week, Esteghlal, with Javad Nekounam as their coach, will compete against Zob Ahan, Foolad, Nasaji, Gol Gohar, and Paykan. It's worth mentioning that none of these opponents are currently in the top half. Esteghlal could take advantage of this favorable schedule to strengthen their lead.

The upcoming matches for Persepolis, led by Brazilian coach Osmar Vieira, include Nasaji, Havadar, Esteghlal Khuzestan, Shams Azar, and Mes Rafsanjan.

*Home advantage and the fight for survival

Esteghlal will enjoy three home matches to close out the season, while Persepolis will also have the same number of games at the Azadi Stadium. Additionally, Persepolis' final match of the season will be at home, potentially allowing for a larger and more passionate crowd.

It's worth noting that Persepolis will face three teams from the bottom of the table – Paykan, Esteghlal Khuzestan, and Nassaji – who are all battling relegation. These matches could prove to be more challenging than expected, adding another layer of intrigue to the title race.

*The relegation battle

At the other end of the table, the fight for survival is intensifying. Foolad (21 points), Esteghlal Khuzestan (20 points), Nassaji (19 points), and Sanat Naft (16 points) find themselves in precarious positions. Sanat Naft, in particular, are facing the prospect of relegation for the second consecutive year.

Remaining Fixtures

Esteghlal's schedule:

*Tractor v Esteghlal
*Esteghlal v Zobahan
*Esteghlal v Foolad
*Nassaji v Esteghlal
*Esteghlal v Gol Gohar
*Paykan v Esteghlal

Persepolis' schedule:
*Persepolis v Sepahan
*Nassaji v Persepolis
*Havadar v Persepolis
*Persepolis v Esteghlal Khuzestan
*Shams Azar v Persepolis
*Persepolis v Mes

As the Persian Gulf Pro League enters its final stretch, the tension is palpable. With both Persepolis and Esteghlal vying for the coveted title and the relegation battle heating up, the remaining matches promise to be filled with drama and excitement. Stay tuned for the latest updates as the Iranian football season reaches its climax.