Chadormalu SC v Persepolis FC

Chadormalu SC overturned a one-goal deficit to beat Persepolis 2-1 in the semi-final of the Persian Gulf Pro League at Nassiri Stadium, with a dramatic winner arriving in the 120th minute. The contest was decided by the home side’s superior finishing across the second half and stoppage time, overcoming a first half that had been controlled by the visitors. The Lemeister model had installed Chadormalu as narrow favourites with a 37 per cent win probability, and they justified that projection through their persistence after the interval.

Persepolis struck first in the 27th minute. A. Kazemian found the net from a pass provided by D. Gera, giving the away side the lead with what the data records as a normal goal. That strike appeared to set the tone for a Persepolis side that had, by that stage, dictated the early tempo. Chadormalu, however, refused to be hurried and their response came early in the second half. In the 57th minute, S. Sadeghian equalised, assisted by A. Safari Laksar, pulling the home team level and shifting the momentum firmly in their favour.

With the score at 1-1 after 90 minutes, the match moved into extra time. The decisive moment arrived five minutes from the end of the additional period. R. Mahmoudabadi scored the winning goal in the 120th minute, with S. Mohammadfar providing the assist. It was a late, lethal blow that gave Chadormalu a 2-1 victory and denied Persepolis the chance to take the tie to penalties. The result underscored the significance of the home side’s work-rate and efficiency when it mattered most.

The raw statistical breakdown of the match is not available from the data provided, making it impossible to confirm possession, shot counts, expected goals, passing accuracy or corner totals. Similarly, no player match ratings have been logged. In the absence of those numbers, the match must be assessed through the sequence of goals and the implicit tactical shape. Chadormalu’s ability to score twice after conceding first suggests a resilience and an ability to raise their output as time wore on, while Persepolis failed to add a second goal after their early opener.

Each substitute was used four times by both sides, indicating that managers sought to influence proceedings through fresh legs, particularly as the first half wore on and again during extra time. No yellow or red cards were issued, which points to a disciplined contest lacking the kind of cynical fouls that can disrupt rhythm. The clean sheet in the disciplinary column is notable for a semi-final at this stage of the competition.

For Chadormalu, this result propels them into the final of the Persian Gulf Pro League, a significant achievement for a side that entered the semi-final as marginal favourites. For Persepolis, elimination at this stage represents a missed opportunity given their early control and the quality they possess in forward areas. The eventual winners will take confidence from their ability to score two goals after the interval, while the losers will reflect on their failure to extend their lead when they had the upper hand.