Iran's women's national football team made a silent statement against the regime. © ANSA / DAVE HUNT

Anthem refused: Iran's courageous female footballers

Before their Asian Cup match, Iran's women's national football team remained silent during the playing of their national anthem. This was internationally interpreted as an act of courage and a clear stance against the regime.

March 03, 2026

From: dpa/sn

Neither the players nor the coaching staff sang along, as could be seen in videos on Tuesday. The fact that the Iranian women lost the match against South Korea 0-3 was overshadowed by the escalating tensions in the Middle East. The game was played in the Australian city of Gold Coast.

Some fans in the stands also joined the protest. Pictures showed many supporters holding up flags from the pre-1979 Islamic Revolution era. Unlike the current flag, this one features a golden lion and a sun instead of a red emblem in the center.

Iranian fans protest against the current regime with historical flags. © ANSA / DAVE HUNT

According to the Australian news agency AAP, the Iranian players and coach Marziyeh Jafari declined to comment on their protest and the war surrounding the match. They will face Australia on Thursday. "Our thoughts are with them and their families. It's a difficult situation, and it's really brave of them to be here and play," said Australian footballer Amy Sayer.