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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Patrick Wintour, Diplomatic editor

Iran players end silent protest at World Cup amid threats of reprisals

Iran players during their national anthem before Friday’s World Cup game against Wales in Qatar
Iran players during their national anthem before Friday’s World Cup game against Wales in Qatar. Photograph: Richard Heathcote/Getty Images

Iran’s football team half-heartedly sang their national anthem at the start of their game against Wales after they had faced fierce criticism from government officials for failing to do so at the start of the game against England.

With their lips barely moving, the players had clearly collectively decided to sing the anthem, but the uncomfortable performance contrasted with the vigour that the Welsh players sang their anthem.

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