Iran still set to play at World Cup - Asian Football Confederation chief

"They are our member. We want them to play. As far as we know, Iran is playing. It's a very emotional moment, everybody is saying a lot of things. At the end of the day, it's the [Iran football] federation who should decide if they're playing and, as for today, the federation ... has told us that they're going to the World Cup."

"Trump had posted on social media that the Iranian team was welcome at the World Cup despite the ongoing war with Iran but that 'I really don't believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety.'"

"The Iran team's riposte on Instagram confirmed they still want to participate, and pointed out that the tournament is run by FIFA, the sport's world governing body, not Trump or the U.S."

Iran's World Cup participation faces uncertainty amid regional conflict and political tensions. The Asian Football Confederation confirmed Iran remains scheduled to compete in the tournament hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. AFC general secretary Windsor John stated the confederation has received no indication Iran won't participate and that the Iranian football federation has committed to attending. U.S. President Trump expressed concerns about Iran's safety at the tournament while acknowledging their eligibility. Iran's sports minister previously suggested current circumstances made participation impossible, but the national team publicly reaffirmed their commitment to compete. Iran is ranked 20th globally and scheduled to play matches in California and Seattle against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt.

Read at ESPN.com