Iran football academy sees registrations rise as youth return after war
Iran football academy in Tehran reports increased registrations as youth return to the pitch after months of war, driven by Iran's qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Mohammad Ghiasi says numbers were lower due to the war but have picked up significantly, with between 400 and 500 youngsters still attending programmes. This shows how major sporting events can revive youth participation and morale during conflict, offering a lesson for Nigerian communities where insecurity often disrupts sports and education. The World Cup excitement has eased anxiety among families and multiplied enthusiasm for football. Iran’s Team Melli opened its campaign with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand and will face Belgium and Egypt in Group G. The team’s training base was moved from Arizona to Tijuana after 15 delegation members were denied US visas. The war began on February 28 with US-Israeli strikes on Iran, ceasing in early April after a deal between Tehran and Washington. Could Nigerian sports academies leverage upcoming international tournaments to boost youth participation despite local security challenges?