Solemn silence during the national anthem and howls of joy after the goals: in Tehran, Iranians followed their team's first steps on American soil in the World Cup with curiosity through the night.Most in the Iranian capital were asleep when the match against New Zealand kicked off at 4:30 am.But in one of the few cafes open to broadcast the match, there was already a buzz of excitement.Around 40 football fans were discussing their team's chances in a World Cup being played under the shadow of the war between Iran and co-hosts the United States.
Iranians up at dawn to cheer their team at World Cup
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Iranians up at dawn to cheer their team at World Cup