AP exclusive: Iran players describe how the war affects their World Cup preparations
ANTALYA, Turkey (AP) — Iran is heading to the World Cup while the country is at war with the primary host nation, a situation that is unique in the tournament’s history. In exclusive interviews with The Associated Press during a team camp in Turkey, two members of Iran’s squad described how the conflict is affecting its World Cup preparations. “Well, to be honest, it’s not easy,” said Saeid Ezatolahi, a 29-year-old midfielder who also played for Iran in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups...
Read MoreThu, 04 Jun 2026
- AP exclusive: Iran players describe how the war affects their World Cup preparations
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