Iran will open their FIFA World Cup Group G campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on Monday, with events off the field adding extra significance to the fixture.
The match comes against the backdrop of tensions between the United States and Iran, and will be played in a region that is home to one of the largest Iranian communities outside the country.
Iran’s participation in the tournament had appeared uncertain in the lead-up to the World Cup due to the conflict. The team also relocated its training base from Tucson to Tijuana, meaning it must travel internationally for each of its group-stage matches in the United States.
The encounter marks the first World Cup meeting between Iran and New Zealand, with both sides aiming to make a strong start in Group G.