TEHRAN - Persepolis will continue their quest to reclaim top spot in the Persian Gulf Pro League (PGPL) when they face Havadar on Matchday 27.

Osmar Vieira’s side currently sit one point behind archrivals Esteghlal and are hoping to close the gap with a victory in this crucial encounter.

*Havadar: A formidable opponent

While Persepolis might be considered the favorites on paper, Havadar have emerged as a strong and transformed team under the guidance of head coach Masoud Shojaei. The team are unbeaten in their last seven PGPL matches and have climbed to 11th place in the table, comfortably clear of the relegation zone.

*Seeking redemption after Hazfi Cup exit

Persepolis, the reigning PGPL champions and last season's treble winners, face a daunting task in their remaining four matches of the season. The team were eliminated from the Hazfi Cup and are now solely focused on retaining their PGPL title.

Osmar Vieira's men will be deprived of the backing of their fans in the match against Havadar as the Iran Football League Organization has decided to hold the match behind closed doors and without spectators at the Dastgerdi Stadium in Tehran.

Saturday clash between Persepolis and Havadar is a pivotal one in the title race. A win for Havadar would blow the title race wide open, allowing Esteghlal to solidify their lead at the top. Persepolis, on the other hand, will be desperate for all three points. They not only need to beat Havadar but will also be keeping a close eye on Esteghlal's match against Foolad, hoping for a slip-up from their rivals to keep their own championship dreams alive.

*Head-to-head record

The historical rivalry between Persepolis and Havadar favors the former. In their last five meetings, Persepolis have claimed three victories, one draw, and one defeat. Havadar's last win over Persepolis came in the second leg fixture of 2022/23 season.