Sport and politics tangle over visas, sanctions and fan support

FIFA World Cup 2026 could see Iran playing the host USA in round 32 knock out football match. However, a lot of permutation and combination are required for that game to happen.

Join our writers as they continue to the countdown to the World Cup ahead of the opening ceremony on Thursday

A major World Cup controversy is brewing as Iran accuses the United States of politicizing football ahead of the tournament. Iranian officials claim Team Melli faces strict travel restrictions, allowing players to enter the U.

The USA did pull one back through Brian McBride late on, but Iran held on to win 2-1. It was their first ever World Cup victory, and it sealed the Americans’ exit from the tournament. The reaction in Iran was enormous. Thousands took to the streets in celebration, with the result carrying a meaning that went well beyond football.

Iran’s soccer stars touched down just miles from the California border Sunday as they arrived in Tijuana ahead of a politically charged World Cup campaign with two blockbuster matches in Los Angeles.

Iran's players have received US visas ahead of the World Cup, but several federation officials are still awaiting clearance before the team's opening match. View on euronews

Before kick-off, Iranian players presented white roses to their American counterparts as a gesture of peace, in a moment widely seen as transcending politics. The two teams met again at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where the United States won 1-0 to progress to the knockout stage.