Iran Metropolis News Agency (IMNA) journalist Ali Karimi explained the reason for the Iranian players' refusal to sing the national anthem at the 2022 World Cup before the game against England.
There were Iranian athletes in other sports who didn't sing the Iranian national anthem, and today the players of the Iranian national team didn't do it as well. However, this is not enough to sympathize with our people. It is a tremendous gesture that makes every player a role model. For this action, every Iranian is a loyal fan of the national team.
Ali Karimi, quoted by Sport24
Karimi noted that not smiling on camera, wearing black bracelets and not celebrating goals is the least the Iranian national team players can do, but he said they can talk about what is happening in Iran in their interviews.
The riots and protests taking place in Iran were sparked by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who was detained for improper dress code in September 2022. Protesters have organized protests against the Iranian authorities, and the protesters include athletes as well. For example, the legendary scorer of the Iranian national team Ali Daei refused the invitation of the Qatar Football Federation to come to the 22nd World Cup.
The game between England and Iran ended with a score of 6-2, with British midfielder Bukayo Saka and Iranian striker Mehdi Taremi scoring doubles. The Iranians will have their next play against Wales on November 25 at 10:00 GMT.
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