Arabic version: فريق إيران في كأس آسيا للسيدات يواجه مخاوف عائلية خلال البطولة
According to Al Jazeera,
Iran’s Women’s Asian Cup team have ‘so much concern’ for their families back home as war rages, with players “fully disconnected” from them during the Women’s Asian Cup. The Iranian team are preparing to face host nation Australia on the Gold Coast on Thursday after losing their opening game of the continental competition 3-0 to South Korea.
An internet blackout has made it near-impossible for players and staff to contact anyone, with Jafari thankful for the support they have received from Iranian Australians. “We are so happy that Iranian Australians here support us,” she told Australian media on Wednesday. “Obviously, we have so much concern for our families and our loved ones and all other people inside our country, which we are fully disconnected with.”
Striker Sara Didar fought back tears as she spoke about their worries. “Obviously, we’re all concerned and we’re sad because of what has happened to Iran and our families and our loved ones,” the 21-year-old told reporters. At least 787 people have been killed across Iran in joint US-Israeli attacks that began on Saturday, the Iranian Red Crescent Society says.
Despite the turmoil, the team remains focused on their professional commitments. Jafari noted the importance of concentrating on their upcoming match against Australia. Australian midfielder Amy Sayer praised the Iranian team for their courage in playing under such difficult circumstances. “Our heart goes out to them and their families, it’s a difficult situation and it’s really brave of them to be able to be here and to perform,” Sayer told reporters.
Thursday’s game will be only the second meeting between the two women’s national teams, with Australia winning the previous match at Perth in 2023. The Iranians are in Australia hoping to qualify for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil, which means they have to finish in the top eight in the Asian Cup. Iran made their historic debut at the last Asian Cup in India in 2022, which made them national heroes in a country where women’s rights are severely restricted.
