Defending champions FC Istiklol Dushanbe were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Sardor Tursunzoda in the Tajikistan Higher League on March 7, 2026. In a match that kicked off at 22:00, the visitors put in a resilient defensive display to stifle Istiklol's attack and earn a valuable point on the road. Istiklol, expected to dominate possession, created several half-chances but found Sardor's organized back line difficult to break down. The closest either side came to a winner was when Istiklol struck the post in the second half. Sardor Tursunzoda defended resolutely throughout, with their goalkeeper making a crucial late save to preserve the draw. The result represented two points dropped for Istiklol in their title defense.