Tehran, Iran, June 19, 2015 - Coaches and captains gathered at a press conference ahead of Iran's two matches against reigning FIVB Volleyball World League champions USA this weekend.
USA captain David Lee said: "It is very exciting to play in Iran. The crowd will make it exciting. It is going to be loud. We have played in this situation before against Poland. It is surely not in our favour, but it is a great challenge."
Iran captain Mir Saeid Marouf said: "It is our first home match. I can't predict the result. USA are the team in the best condition in the pool. We are not thinking of the result, but about producing our best performance and playing well for the fans."
Iran coach Slobodan Kovac said: "It is Iran's first match hosting USA - the first in history. Sport does not have any boundaries. I am so happy that I can be part of history. USA is in Iran and we were in the USA. As my captain said, USA are in their best condition."
"Those who expect us to win after the victory over Russia are those who do not understand volleyball. We will surely play to win. We played really well against the Russians. But it is not easy to play against USA. It does not mean that I am sorry we are playing against the best teams. We will simply play our best volleyball against USA."
USA coach John Speraw said: "Checking the videos, we understand that Iran have progressed over the course of the World League. Both teams are not where they wanted to be. Iran have improved tremendously, however. My only prediction is that it is going to be challenging against Iran. Everyone has been very hospitable here and we are genuinely excited to be in Iran."