Iran's national football team was greeted by a small group of supporters in Mexico, despite visa problems facing some staffers.
A dozen fans, including Sadegh Galavi, a mechanic and resident of Tijuana, welcomed the team with cheers as they left the airport.
The gesture felt especially important because the tournament is beginning under difficult circumstances for Iran, with about 15 accompanying officials denied visas.
The visa controversy is the latest chapter in the drama surrounding Iran's team at this unusual World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Iranian fans, like Sina Moghadam, display unwavering faith in their team, despite the off-field developments.
With all these challenges, can the Iranians play their best football against New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt and finally advance from the group stage?
