Paykan vs ZOB Ahan Prediction at 16-01-2026

Jan 1611:30
Paykan

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ZOB Ahan

Match Preview: Paykan vs ZOB Ahan - A Battle for Mid-Table Supremacy

On January 16, 2026, football fans are in for an intriguing clash in the Iranian Pro League as Paykan takes on ZOB Ahan at the iconic Imam Reza Stadium. Both teams find themselves locked in a mid-table tussle, making this match critical for their aspirations to secure a higher finish and potential qualification for continental tournaments. With historical rivalries, recent momentum shifts, and individual brilliance at play, the stakes couldn't be higher for either side.

Team Analysis

Paykan: The Resilient Giants

Paykan has shown remarkable resilience this season, gathering an impressive 14 points from their last five matches, including three wins and two draws. This upturn in form has come from a solid defensive setup that has conceded only five goals in that same stretch. The midfield unit, led by the experienced Hadi Aghily, has been pivotal, providing both creative spark and defensive stability.

  • Recent Form: W-D-W-W-D
  • Season Goals Scored/Conceded: 28/22
  • Key Player: Hadi Aghily - vital for orchestrating play and breaking up opposition attacks.

ZOB Ahan: The Tactical Strategists

ZOB Ahan, on the other hand, has had a mixed bag of results recently, acquiring 8 points from their last five encounters with two wins, two draws, and a loss. Their gameplay has been characterized by a tactical approach that focuses on pressing high and exploiting transitions. However, their large number of injuries, particularly the absence of Mohammad Ghazi, could undermine their attacking efficiency.

  • Recent Form: L-W-D-L-W
  • Season Goals Scored/Conceded: 24/20
  • Key Player: Javad Nekounam - expected to play a crucial role in midfield control.

Head-to-Head and Historical Context

Historically, the rivalry between Paykan and ZOB Ahan has been tight, with their last five meetings yielding two wins for Paykan, two draws, and one victory for ZOB Ahan. The last encounter ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw — a testimony to the competitive edge both teams have over each other.

This season, both clubs are vying for momentum, but Paykan's home advantage could play a significant factor. The Imam Reza Stadium often supports the home side with a capacity crowd urging them on, creating an electric atmosphere that disrupts visiting teams’ performances.

Contextual Factors Impacting the Match

  • Injuries: Paykan has a full squad to choose from, which will be critical as ZOB Ahan grapples with key injuries, particularly their central defender, which could lead to defensive lapses.
  • Weather Conditions: The forecast predicts clear skies and moderate temperatures — ideal for a game of fluid, attacking football.
  • Standing Motivation: Both teams are eager to assert dominance and improve their league positions as they jockey for favorable playoff standings.

Prediction

Considering the current form, historical context, and home advantage, I predict a closely contested match with Paykan edging past ZOB Ahan with a scoreline of 2-1. Paykan’s defensive structure should hold firm against ZOB Ahan’s injury-depleted squad, and their ability to create chances through Aghily will likely deliver the edge needed to take all three points. For those considering betting, look for options such as Paykan to win with both teams to score, as ZOB Ahan's tactical approach may leave them vulnerable while still being capable of finding the net.

Match info

Tournaments:

Persian Gulf Pro League(Regular Season - 16)

Referee:

No information

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