Iranian football fans gathered outside and inside the World Cup stadium to protest the Iranian regime and call for change, with many defying FIFA's ban by displaying the pre-revolutionary flag. The Iranian national anthem was met with a mix of cheers and whistles during the match.
Iranian footballer Sardar Azmoun's exclusion from the World Cup squad, widely believed to be for political reasons related to his protests against the regime, has caused division in Iran.
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Several national teams are making preparations and announcing squads for the 2026 World Cup, with Iran confirming its roster and heading to Turkey for training. Discussions also include Manuel Neuer's potential inclusion as Germany's goalkeeper, while Brazil's roster is being finalized with Vinicius expected to lead and questions around Neymar. Additionally, players to watch from debutante teams like Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan are highlighted.
Preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are underway, with teams like Germany arriving for final training and discussions around player protection from heat. The tournament also faces significant security challenges for US law enforcement and will introduce new FIFA-approved rule changes.
As the World Cup approaches, national teams are finalizing their rosters, with various players making headlines for call-ups, injuries, or controversial selections. Preparations also include fan engagement initiatives and broadcasting plans for the upcoming tournament.
Iran is intensifying its crackdown on public figures accused of dissent, including expelling football star Sardar Azmoun from the national team and seizing assets of others in the diaspora.
Sardar Azmoun, jedna od najvećih zvijezda iranske reprezentacije, izbačen je iz ekipe zbog poteza koji je protumačen kao nelojalnost vlastima, objavili su iranski mediji.
Sardar Azmoun, known as 'Iranian Messi,' was reportedly left off Iran's World Cup squad after being accused of 'treason' over a social media post with the Emir of Dubai.
Excluded from Iran's World Cup squad in what appears to be a political decision, former star forward Sardar Azmoun posted a message of support for his teammates on social media. The article highlights his solidarity with the team despite his exclusion.
Iranian footballer Sardar Azmoun has reportedly been excluded from the national squad for two World Cup warm-up matches, with media reports citing his meeting with a Dubai leader as a perceived act of disloyalty.
Sardar Azmoun, one of Iran's top soccer players, has been expelled from the national team for a perceived act of disloyalty, making his participation in the World Cup unlikely amidst internal problems in Iranian football and regional tensions.