Iran’s footballers arrive in US amid peace deal but admit tension ‘undermines joy’

TL;DR

Iran's national football team arrived in Los Angeles for the World Cup amidst a turbulent buildup involving visa issues and protests.
Striker Mehdi Taremi stated that the political tension surrounding the team undermines FIFA's message of peace and joy.
Head coach Amir Ghalenoi acknowledged that travel disruptions impacted preparations but stressed the team's dedication to playing for all Iranians.
The team is also dealing with the absence of player Sardar Azmoun and the controversy around the historical Iranian flag being banned from stadiums.
Despite opposition, the team aims to unite people through football, separating sports from politics.

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