Iran’s players decided not to sing their national anthem before their game against England in support of anti-government protesters back home.
It’s customary for the players to sing the anthem of their country before the commencement of any game.
Iran’s beach football, water polo and basketball teams have also recently refused to sing the national anthem.
A nationwide protest has rocked the country since the death Mahsa Amini in morality police custody in September.
Hundreds of protestors have reportedly died in Tehran and other cities following the death of the 22-year-old woman who died in a prison having been arrested for not wearing her hijab correctly.
It’s yet another moment that has come to characterised the Qatar World Cup in the face of several socio-political issues rocking the world.Iran eventually lost their opening game to England 6-2.