WORLD CUP POLITICS

Iran’s national soccer team is set to play in the United States this summer, but many fans living abroad are torn. The country’s recent crackdown on protests and the ongoing war with the U. S. and Israel add pressure to a simple love of the game. The team was given visas at the last minute and had

Before the whistle blows, Iran’s soccer team is already dealing with problems off the pitch. Visa troubles and political friction have thrown training plans into chaos. Some team staff couldn’t enter the U. S. , forcing Iran to set up camp in Mexico instead. Now, their opening match against New Zeal