WANA (Feb 27) – In today’s highly anticipated 105th Tehran Derby, Iran’s two legendary football teams, Persepolis and Esteghlal, faced off in an intense battle.

 

Persepolis emerged victorious with a final score of 2-1—a result that, along with the game’s thrilling moments and impressive statistics, sparked a wave of joy and pride among the team’s passionate fans. Once again, this victory proved that football in Iran is not just a game but a cultural, social, and even historical phenomenon.

The poster on AFC’s Persian page after Persepolis’ victory against Esteghlal. Social media/ WANA News Agency

Persepolis: A Glorious Legacy and Outstanding Records

Founded in December 1963, Persepolis has become one of Iran’s most decorated football clubs over the past six decades. With over 15 league titles, multiple domestic cup victories, and notable international achievements, the club has set remarkable records in the world of sports.

 

Moreover, with an estimated fan base of 5 to 10 million across the country, Persepolis is not just a football team but a sporting and social phenomenon.

 

These devoted supporters bring unmatched enthusiasm to every match, whether through their massive presence in stadiums like Azadi Stadium or their widespread engagement on social media, showcasing the club’s immense influence.

 

Esteghlal: A Rich Heritage and Lasting Impact on Iran’s Sporting Culture

Founded in 1945, Esteghlal Tehran—formerly known as Taj before the Iranian Revolution—is a cornerstone of Iran’s football history. With multiple domestic titles and impressive performances in Asian competitions, Esteghlal has secured a special place in the hearts of its supporters.

 

The club has two AFC Champions League titles (1970 and 1990–91), along with two runner-up finishes and three third-place standings in the tournament’s history.

 

Estimates suggest that Esteghlal’s fan base ranges between 4 to 6 million, a devoted community that turns every match into a spectacle of passion and history.

 

Their strong presence in major stadiums and widespread activity in digital spaces further highlight the club’s deep-rooted role in Iran’s sporting culture.

 

Tehran Derbies: A Rivalry Beyond a Sports Match

Tehran derbies, especially the clashes between Persepolis and Esteghlal, have always symbolized a battle rooted in history, statistics, and the deep cultural fabric of Iranians. Major stadiums like Azadi and Heidarieh, with capacities sometimes exceeding 70,000 spectators, host electrifying moments and unforgettable scenes.

 

In these derbies, precise details such as the number of goals scored, ball possession percentage, and technical metrics not only influence the final outcome but also provide crucial data that attract media and sports analysts. These rivalries are not merely sporting events but rather grand festivals of passion, perseverance, and social unity that energize the city and the country.

 

Football in Iran: A Cultural and Social Phenomenon

Football in Iran is not merely a game; it embodies the spirit and culture of an entire nation. Iranian football fans, regarded by some studies as among the most passionate in Asia, participate in each match with extraordinary enthusiasm.

 

Available data indicate that Iranian stadiums, especially during high-stakes events like Tehran derbies, reach overwhelming capacities, with the spectators’ fervor sometimes leading to physical issues such as extreme stress or even heart attacks.

 

This deep-rooted passion, combined with precise audience statistics and a significant presence in the digital space, underscores that football in Iran is more than just a sport—it is a symbol of national culture and identity.