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Editor's note: FIFA Women's World Cup 2023™ has come and gone — the last game was Aug. 20, 2023. KPBS will be covering the next World Cup in 2026.

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Tehran native and Stony Brook University graduate student Arad Ershad plays soccer with friends at Stony Brook University in Stony Brook, N.Y., Friday, April 3, 2026.
Ryan Murphy
/
AP
Some don't plan to cheer for Iran because they say the players didn't speak out against the Islamic republic's leadership after its deadly crackdown on protesters in January. Others say they plan to attend Iran’s games bearing signs of protest. And still others say they’ll set politics aside to enjoy the rare chance to see Iran compete on soccer’s biggest stage in their own backyard.

There are a lot of “firsts” at this year’s Women’s World Cup. It’s the first time 32 nations will compete, several making their World Cup debut, and it’s the first time two countries will play host. Also, it’s the first year the United States women’s national team will play under new equal pay agreements. But also among the firsts are several familiarities. Brazil’s Marta returns to solidify her place as the all-time top scorer in the competition. The U.S. is defending its title (for the second time in a row). And soccer legend Megan Rapinoe is making her final world cup appearance.

Follow KPBS’ coverage of the biggest event in women’s sports.