Iran 'social' banners in Russia OK: FIFA

Banners in support of women being allowed to attend soccer matches in Iran have been approved for display at the World Cup, governing body FIFA said.

Flags bearing the messages "#NoBan4Women" and "Support Iranian Women to Attend Stadiums" were displayed in the stands during Iran's 1-0 win over Morocco in Saint Petersburg on Friday.

FIFA does not permit political statements to be made by fans during matches but said this campaign was a "social appeal" rather than a political slogan and the banners had been pre-approved by themselves and the local organising committee.

Women have been prevented from attending male-only sport events in Iran for nearly 40 years.

But female fans from Iran have made their way to Russia for the World Cup and were pictured in the stadium supporting their team.

Group B leaders Iran play Spain in their next match on Wednesday.