An Iranian state television presenter has called the women’s national football team “wartime traitors” after the players did not sing the national anthem before their Asian Cup opening match against South Korea in Australia.
Iran are taking part in the tournament while tensions and military conflict are rising in their country. The situation worsened after the United States and Israel carried out air strikes at the weekend, which reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Before the match on the Gold Coast, Iran’s players stood silently while the national anthem was played ahead of their 3–0 defeat to South Korea on Monday. However, before their next match against hosts Australia three days later, the team sang the anthem and saluted the flag before losing 4–0.
State television presenter Mohammad Reza Shahbazi criticised the players in a video that has spread widely on social media. He said their actions showed a lack of patriotism and called it a serious act of dishonour.
He said that people who act against the country during wartime should face stronger punishment and added that the players’ refusal to sing the anthem should be treated more seriously.
Reuters has asked the Asian Football Confederation, the Iranian football federation and the national team for comment.
Before the match against Australia, Iran forward Sara Didar became emotional while speaking about the war. Head coach Marziyeh Jafari said the players were trying to stay focused on the tournament despite worrying about their families back home.
Iran will play their final group match against the Philippines on Sunday.
