Iran’s players sang the national anthem ahead of their crucial World Cup match against the USA following reports of political pressure in their home country.
Iran stayed silent while the anthem was played before the opening game of the tournament against England. Following a growing backlash, the majority of the team did sing the anthem before their second match against Wales.
Pressure has ramped up back in Iran, where players’ families have reportedly been threatened with imprisonment or torture. A report from CNN alleges that Iran’s footballers were informed their families would face “violence and and torture” if they did not sing the national anthem before the USA game.
