大象传媒

Iran players refused to sing their national anthem before their World Cup match with England in an apparent expression of support for anti-government protests in their home country. Iran's national team have been in the spotlight because of the women's rights protests taking place in their country - some fans have been calling on the players to speak out.

大象传媒 Outside Source spoke to two Iranian women who shared their reactions to the Iranian team's gesture. Maryam Shojaei, a civil rights activist said: "They didn't sing the national anthem, but that was a very simple gesture."

"They have the world stage and we're expecting more from them. Their celebrity protects them and provides immunity," she added.

Another woman, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "Even my friends wished for Iran to lose."

(Photo: Iran stand during their national anthem prior to the match between England and Iran, FIFA World Cup 2022. Credit: Neil Hall/EPA-EFE/Rex/Shutterstock)