Mes Rafsanjan Clinches Vital Win Over Paykan with Second-Half Surge

Mes Rafsanjan delivered a resolute performance on home turf Friday, emerging 2-0 victors against Paykan in a Persian Gulf Pro League encounter that underscored their determination to climb the table after a sluggish start to the season. The match at Shohadaye Sanat Mes Stadium featured two incisive moments early in the second half, with goals from Amir Ramezani and Mohammad Sharifi propelling the hosts past a Paykan side that struggled to assert themselves offensively.
The first half was characterized by disciplined defending and measured buildup from both teams, but neither side could break the deadlock. The tension was palpable, highlighted by a flurry of yellow cards: Paykan’s M. Azarpad and N. Entezari went into the referee’s book within minutes of each other, while Mes Rafsanjan’s A. Naghizadeh received his own caution in the 32nd minute. This physicality foreshadowed the intensity that would define the second period.
Mes Rafsanjan seized control soon after the restart. In the 47th minute, Matheus Costa combined superbly with Amir Ramezani, who found space inside the box and finished with precision past the Paykan goalkeeper. The goal provided a jolt of energy to the hosts, and their momentum was rewarded just eleven minutes later. S. Nariman’s clever pass unlocked the Paykan defense, creating a clear opening for Mohammad Sharifi, whose assured finish doubled Mes Rafsanjan’s lead in the 58th minute—a margin they preserved for the remainder of the contest.
Paykan, currently fourth in the standings, struggled to generate meaningful chances and lacked the cutting edge that had defined their early season success. Mes Rafsanjan, meanwhile, looked confident and increasingly assured, repelling Paykan’s sporadic attacks and maintaining control in midfield. The home side’s improved form against Paykan is notable, as they have now avoided defeat in their last five league meetings and notched another clean sheet in the process.
The result is a much-needed boost for Mes Rafsanjan, who entered the match sitting 16th in the table, having not won any of their previous five league matches. Fans will hope that this victory, built on defensive solidity and timely attacking play, marks a turning point in their campaign.
As the final whistle blew at Shohadaye Sanat Mes Stadium, Mes Rafsanjan’s supporters celebrated a well-earned three points—one that could prove vital in their quest to climb out of the relegation zone and reignite their season in the Persian Gulf Pro League.