WC Soccer—Fans gather for politically charged U.S.—Iran World Cup showdown

WC Soccer—Fans gather for politically charged U.S.—Iran World Cup showdown
Iranian and US supporters pose for a photo before the World Cup group B soccer match between Iran and the United States at the Al Thumama Stadium in Doha, Qatar, on Nov. 29, 2022. Christophe Ena/AP Photo
The Associated Press
Updated:

DOHA, Qatar—Smiling U.S. and Iranian fans mingled and posed for photos outside a stadium in Doha ahead of a politically charged World Cup match on Tuesday.

The atmosphere was generally festive though the political divisions among Iran fans were apparent outside Al Thumama Stadium, as they have been during previous Iran games during the tournament, with pro-government fans confronting those expressing support for the anti-government protests across Iran.