FOOTBALL TO THE FORE

UNITED STATES coach Gregg Berhalter has issued a grovelling apology to Iran over the 'flag-gate' controversy that has overshadowed their make-or-break game.

- SIMON MULLOCK

Berhalter (right) insisted that his players and staff had no idea that his US Soccer bosses had taken a decision to post on social media a doctored image of the Iranian flag with the emblem of the Islamic Republic removed.

Reports from Tehran claimed Iran would urge FIFA to kick the Americans out of the tournament.