When war started this moment looked unlikely, but Iran have now departed for WC. Spent 4 days with in Türkiye as they prepared. Watched training, match & spoke to players & officials as visa row went into last 24hrs.
Read free on @theathleticfc.bsky.social here ⬇️
www.nytimes.com/athletic/733...
The Athletic's Adam Leventhal travelled to Iran's training base in Turkey and spent time following their final tournament preparations
