Catch up TV

Episode 26 November 2022

In the football World Cup 20 years ago, Iran and the USA came face to face in one of the most politically charged matches in history. Relations between the two countries had been hostile for two decades. Pressure on the players to prove themselves on the pitch was intense and would result in a thrilling game watched by millions. But what aren't widely known are the stories behind the scenes - an al Qaeda plot, the attempted sabotage of the game by an anti-Iranian government group and an intervention by Iran's Supreme Leader that caused a headache for match officials. In this film we bring together the players, coaches, FIFA officials and the referee to hear their untold stories and emotions as they reflect on the match of their careers.

Source: BBC 2