Iran's World Cup soccer team has been granted visas to enter the United States, just 10 days before their first match in Los Angeles. The decision ends a diplomatic standoff between the two countries.
Iran's ambassador to Mexico had said late Thursday the squad still lacked approval. But by Friday, a White House official confirmed the visas were granted overnight.
The delay had forced Tehran to move the team's base from Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico. Players are scheduled to land there early Sunday.
Iran plays New Zealand in Group G on June 15 in Los Angeles, then faces Belgium and Egypt. The tournament marks the first time a host nation receives a country it is actively at war with.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned Tuesday the U.S. would block any delegation members linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guards-a condition that could affect several players who served mandatory military time with the group.