Irans Womens Asian Cup Team Expresses Concern Over Families Back Home

Iranian Women’s Football Team Arrives in Australia Amid Ongoing Conflict

The Iranian women’s football team has arrived in Australia ahead of their upcoming match against the host nation on Thursday. The team, coached by Marziyeh Jafari, is preparing to face a challenging situation as war rages on in Iran.

According to Jafari, the team is “fully disconnected” from their families and loved ones back home due to an internet blackout caused by the conflict. Despite this, they have received support from Iranian Australians, which has been expressed gratitude for.

The team’s striker, Sara Didar, shared her concerns about the situation in Iran, stating that the team is “concerned and sad” about the ongoing attacks on their country. At least 787 people have been killed across Iran in joint US-Israeli attacks since Saturday, according to the Iranian Red Crescent Society.

Asian football chiefs have offered full support and assistance to the team, who arrived in Australia just days before US-Israeli strikes killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The team declined to comment on the death of Khamenei when asked by reporters.

The Iranian fans at Monday’s game waved national colours and chanted support for the team, which has been a source of encouragement for Jafari and her players. Australia midfielder Amy Sayer praised the Iranian team for their courage in playing under difficult circumstances.

The match between Iran and Australia will be the second meeting between the two teams, with Australia winning the previous match at Perth in 2023. The Iranians are hoping to qualify for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil by finishing in the top eight in the Asian Cup.

Source: Al Jazeera