World Cup 2022: Iran players decline to sing national anthem

Iran did not sing their national anthem before their World Cup match with England in order to support the anti-government protests in their country.

Some fans yelled and jeered during the anthem while others held up signs.

CarlosQueiroz said his players were free to protest.

The death in custody of a woman in Iran sparked a wave of protests in the country.

The 22-year-old Amini was taken into custody by the morality police.

According to human rights activists, more than 400 protesters have been killed and more than 17,000 others arrested in Iran.

Iran's leaders say the protests are staged by the country's enemies.

Iranian fans chanted "Ali Karimi" in the first half in reference to the former footballer who is one of the most outspoken critics of the Islamic Republic.

The fans chanted "Be-Sharaf", which means dishonourable in Persian. Protesters in Iran use this word against security forces.

Iran's captain said before the game that the players supported those who have died.

As long as the World Cup regulations are followed, the players are free to protest over women's rights in their home country.

Iran's players covered up their national team badges when they played two warm up internationals.

Gary Lineker said that it was a very significant gesture.

Football is trying to make a difference.

In the group B game, England defeated Iran.

'It was a lively football game, but it was much more than that' - Analysis

She is a news correspondent for the British Broadcasting Corp.

There were many symbolic gestures in the game. Iran's players didn't want to sing the national anthem at the stadium.

As he heard it in the stands, a fan was in tears. He said for his people. They're murdering my people.

Cheers for the Iranians were loud and continuous. I mean Iran. The name and map of the country were painted on the drum that made the sound of Iran.

Women with their hair fully on display screamed whenever their team got close to the net. The football game was fun, but it was more than that.

In the sea of Iranian and English flags, a woman stood with a small poster that said "woman, life, freedom" in support of the protesters back in her home country. She wanted her message to get across but she didn't want to show her face.

I was whispered to by an Iranian fan as I entered the stands. Pictures are not necessary. I would like to return to the country one day and not have any problems.

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