Iran are taking centre stage at the World Cup after arriving in the United States following a build-up shrouded by uncertainty due to US-Israeli war in the Middle East.
The Iranian squad, whose preparations have been dogged by political tensions and visa issues arising from the US-Israel military strikes on Iran, face New Zealand at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on Monday (9 pm ET), a day after touching down in California on Sunday.
Team Melli were initially to be based in Tucson, Arizona for the tournament, but switched their training base to Tijuana, Mexico at the 11th hour as a result of ongoing tensions with World Cup co-hosts the United States over visa issues.
US authorities have refused to grant visas for several members of the Iranian delegation.
Protests are planned outside the stadium by members of the Iranian diaspora opposed to Tehran’s government, and there have been threats that the Iran team could walk off the pitch if anti-government banners are displayed during the Group G clash against All Whites.
Speaking to reporters at a press conference on Sunday, Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei said he hoped his team's performances at the World Cup could unite all Iranians at home and overseas.
"We are here to perform a good match, a high-quality match. We don't pay attention to any of the hype and anything that goes on around us," Ghalenoei said in response to a question from AFP news agency.
"Naturally, all teams have their own problems, and in many countries, many things happen that have nothing to do with football."
The coach said his team are at the World Cup to "represent the respectful people of Iran, be it the Iranians inside Iran or the Iranian diaspora."
"We are not political people... football is separate from politics," said Ghalenoei.
FIFA's message of peace undermined?
Iran's World Cup debut comes just a day after Washington and Tehran announced a permanent deal to end their ongoing conflict.
During the presser, Iran striker Mehdi Taremi said the disruption around the team's participation undermines FIFA's message of peace.
"This kind of tension undermines that joy and it undermines the message of FIFA and our people, which is about football and bringing about peace," said Taremi.
"I think this World Cup could have provided a better atmosphere than it has and I hope in the future it will be better for all fans, whoever they are supporting."
Around 35,000 Iran supporters are expected for their Group G opener against New Zealand, with some planning protests against the team.
Iran have threatened to halt matches if unofficial flags are brought in or slogans chanted against them, while a California non-profit has filed a lawsuit seeking to prevent any restrictions.
FIFA prohibits flags or apparel of a political nature. But it has not commented specifically on what its approach will be to the Iranian pre-revolutionary flag.
