Iran are heading to the World Cup while their 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 their 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.