Persepolis coach Ivankovic sees Tehran derby as an asset for Iranian football

Tehran Times – TEHRAN, Persepolis football coach Branko Ivankovic says that Tehran derby between Persepolis and Esteghlal is an asset for the Iranian football.

The match has been scheduled for Thursday in Tehran’s Azadi Stadium.

“I am happy because of upcoming Tehran derby since I think the match is an asset for Iran football. Our players are also happy for derby and should dedicated their lives for this match,” Ivankovic said.

In response to Esteghlal coach Winfried Schaefer’s claims that they are going to win the derby, Ivankovic said, “Mr. Schaefer is an experienced coach and it’s normal he says that they want to win the match because we also want to win the match.”

“We qualified for the AFC Champions League semi-final and defeated Naft Tehran in Hazfi Cup and earned good results in Iran Professional League. It shows we’ve been doing a good job,” the Croat added.

Asked whether he would be interested in extending his contract, Ivankovic said that he is happy to be here in Iran but it’s not good time to talk about the issue.