Arman Ramezani scored the late-winning goal in the 88th minute in Tehran’s Azadi Stadium.
In Isfahan, Persepolis and Zob Ahan shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw.
Saeid Bagherpasand scored for the host in the second minute and Sherzod Temirov equalized the match in the 56th minute.
With four games to spare, Esteghlal leads the table with 60 points, followed by Persepolis with 54 points.
Matchweek 26:
*Tractor 3-2 Havadar
*Gol Gohar 2-0 Aluminum
*Paykan 0-1 Sepahan
*Nassaji 0-2 Mes
*Foolad 1-0 Sanat Naft
*Fajr Sepasi 0-0 Naft Masjed Soleyman