In the match held in Tabriz, the defending champion created so many chances but failed to find the net.

Elsewhere, Kheybar and Shams Azar shared the spoils in a goalless draw in Khoramabad, Chadormalou drew 0-0 with Zob Ahan in Yazd and Paykan edged past Gol Gohar 1-0 in Sirjan.

On Friday, Persepolis will face IPL leader Esteghlal in Arak, Foolad face Aluminum, Sepahan host Fajr Sepasi and Malavan meet Mes Rafsanjan.