Iranian women’s national team refuse to sing national anthem in Asia Cup opening game

Gold Coast, Australia – Iran’s women’s national team stood in silent formation as their national anthem played ahead of Thursday’s Women’s Asian Cup opener against South Korea, a deliberate act that instantly became the most talked-about image of the tournament’s first matchday.

The squad lined up on the Cbus Super Stadium turf, faces composed and expressionless, while the anthem echoed through the stands. Not a single player sang, a stark departure from the customary pre-match ritual. Head coach Marziyeh Jafari watched from the technical area, arms folded, as cameras captured the moment against a backdrop of heightened geopolitical tension.

The scene unfolded hours after confirmed US-Israeli strikes killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, an event that has sent shockwaves through the region. Inside the ground, the silence felt louder than any song.

Iran went on to lose the contest 3-0, but the result was almost a footnote to the pre-match demonstration. The tournament marks only Iran’s second appearance at the Asian Cup and doubles as qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, yet global attention fixed firmly on the anthem protest.

Earlier in the day, Jafari and captain Zahra Ghanbari fronted a brief press conference restricted to three questions. When a journalist attempted to ask about the players’ feelings regarding recent developments in Iran, an AFC media officer intervened before the coach’s answer could be translated.

“OK, I think that’s all for your question. Thank you for asking. Let’s just focus on the game itself,” the official said, shutting down the line of inquiry.

Jafari and Ghanbari later reiterated their focus on football, insisting the squad is determined to compete strongly during the group stage. Iran must still face co-hosts Australia and the Philippines as they chase a maiden World Cup berth.

Whether the silent anthem stance will continue in upcoming fixtures remains to be seen, but the opening act has already ensured the Iranian women’s team will be watched far beyond the touchlines of Australia’s Gold Coast.