Iran footballers describe how war with US-Israel affects their World Cup

Iran is heading to the World Cup while at war with the US and Israel since February 28, with an uneasy ceasefire in place since April 8. Midfielder Saeid Ezatolahi, playing in his third World Cup, said the political situation affects the players' minds. The team trained in Turkey and faced visa issues, eventually receiving permits from the Mexican embassy in Ankara. The process was finalized, allowing the team to travel to Mexico.