US and Iraq Deny Visa Problems for World Cup Players

The White House has rejected claims that the United States denied visas to several players in the Iraqi national soccer team ahead of the World Cup. The US State Department said the team faced no obstacles to participating in the tournament and that it was in daily contact with FIFA.

The denial came in response to reports circulating on social media that five Iraqi players, including striker Ali Al-Hamadi, had encountered problems entering the country.

The Iraqi Football Association called the reports false and confirmed that all squad members had already obtained US visas.

Iraq will play in a tough group alongside France, Senegal and Norway at the World Cup in North America, with matches scheduled in both the United States and Canada.

(reuters, mja)