Players receive US visas after arduous process in Turkey, but several 'integral' members of coaching staff and soccer federation reportedly denied entry; Tehran accuses Washington of politicizing the World Cup and seeks FIFA intervention

High visa application fees, equally high rejection rates, an unwelcoming America, and the war combine to deter fans.

The national team has faced months of uncertainty over travel arrangements for the tournament, which begins on June 11.

The Iran Football Federation accuses the United States of "vindictive behavior" after 14 managerial and administrative members were denied U.S. visas for upcoming World Cup…