Iran back down from national anthem protest before Wales World Cup tie

Iran players were booed by supporters as they sang the national anthem before their World Cup fixture with Wales on Friday morning. The country’s stars stood in silence before their tournament opener against England earlier this week to support a native protest movement surrounding the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in police custody. 

There were huge question marks over whether Iran would continue their national anthem protest on Friday, as they did against the Three Lions. Mahsa Amini’s death in September, following an arrest for failing to comply with the country’s hijab rules, sparked grief and anger in the country, bringing protestors out onto the streets. 

The Iranian national team had previously drawn criticism from those protesting for bowing in front of President Ebrahim Raisi before heading off to Qatar. They responded by staying silent while their national song was played on Monday, but under pressure from politicians, they backtracked on the protest before kick-off against Wales. 

Amid a chorus of boos from their own supporters in the stands at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Iran’s players gave a relatively muted rendition of the anthem. 

We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.

For the latest news and breaking news visit: express.co.uk/sport/football

Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter @dexpress_sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real time.

We’re also on Facebook @dailyexpresssport – offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and Express.co.uk.