New Delhi, June 6 -- Tensions between Iran and the United States have reached the football pitch ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Tehran has accused Washington of blocking visas for essential backroom staff even after clearing the national team's players to enter the country.

US officials confirmed on Friday that visas were issued to Iran's players and a limited number of necessary support staff. The decision came just 10 days before Iran's opening Group G match against New Zealand on 15 June at SoFi Stadium near Los Angeles.

At the same time, Washington stressed that the process would not be abused. Officials warned Iran against attempts to bring in individuals linked to security concerns, particularly those connected to the Islamic R...