Cup Confidential

TEHRAN

Everyone knows World Cup matches have been sweltering — everyone, that is, except Iranian TV viewers, who are shown pictures of crowds bundled up in wool overcoats, mittens and boots. Censors did not dare show scantily dressed fans in America for fear of corrupting Islamic morals.

LONDON

Queen Elizabeth is reported to have risked 1 pound in the Windsor Castle betting pool. Alas, the unlucky monarch drew the U.S.

BUENOS AIRES

Ever since he attended Argentina’s loss to Cameroon in the 1990 Cup, President Carlos Menem has been viewed as a jinx, or “mufa.” On a visit to the U.S. last month, Menem purposely passed up a chance to see Argentina play Nigeria — an election-year ploy, insiders say.