Iran

A prominent Iranian politician on Tuesday called for players in the country's national football team to be punished for clashing with their Japanese opponents after losing in the Asia Cup semi-finals.... more »

Veteran coach Carlos Queiroz quoted Frank Sinatra, gushed over his players and argued furiously with a critic as he said goodbye to Iran on Monday -- and did it his way.... more »

Japan cashed in on a defensive mix-up and a controversial penalty as they stunned favourites Iran 3-0 in the Asian Cup semi-finals to move one win away from their fifth title on Monday.... more »

A series of blaring loudspeaker announcements repeatedly silenced Iran coach Carlos Queiroz on Sunday -- just as he was urging his team to express themselves in their Asian Cup semi-final against Japan.... more »

Iran fired an Asian Cup warning by dispatching China 3-0 in ruthless fashion to reach the semi-finals on Thursday while a landmark VAR-assisted penalty sent Japan through.... more »