U.S. eases travel restrictions for Iran football team

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has eased restrictions on Iran’s national football team, allowing the squad to arrive in Seattle two days before its World Cup match against Egypt, NBC News reported.

After Iran’s 2-2 draw with New Zealand in Inglewood, California, the team was ordered to leave the United States and return to its training camp in Tijuana, Mexico, despite plans to stay overnight for recovery.

According to NBC News, Iran will be allowed to arrive in Seattle two days before the June 26 match against Egypt. The team will be asked to leave the United States on the evening after the game.

Iran’s football federation had expressed dissatisfaction with the restrictions and considered filing a complaint with FIFA.

Iran have two points after draws against New Zealand and Belgium and sit second in Group G. They will face Egypt in their final group-stage match.