A football and a thousand dreams of Iran's children

In the narrow alleys and on the arid vacant lots of Tehran's outskirts, it is not hard to spot Iranian children absorbed in playing football. For them, the ball is more than just a game; it is a gateway to a world of dreams.

The children collect tattered, used balls and carefully patch them up. On makeshift pitches, each pass and each shot holds a longing to escape poverty and pursue a better life. Many dream of one day wearing the national team jersey, standing on a grand field, and bringing glory to their homeland.

Though life remains fraught with hardships, the sparkle in their eyes as they chase the round ball says it all: resilience and faith in the future never fade.