By Admin 
Amidst the ongoing tension between Iran and Israel in the Middle East, its impact is being seen on the football field as well. Iran’s women’s football team gave a special military salute during its national anthem before the match of the Asian Tournament. This scene came into limelight when a few days ago the team maintained silence during the national anthem in its first match.
This match was played against the Australian women’s football team, in which Australia won 4-0. The match took place in the Gold Coast of Australia and about 22 thousand spectators were present in it.
Silence in the first match, salute in the second
The Iranian team did not sing anything during the national anthem in the first match of the tournament. At that time, in many reports it was described as a sign of protest or mourning, but no official statement came from the team on this. However, in the second match against Australia, the players sang the national anthem and also saluted their army. It is believed that this change has come at a time when the situation in the Middle East is very tense and international news regarding Iran is constantly in the headlines.
Players worry about their families
Iran’s striker Sara Didar became emotional in the press conference before the match. He said that in the current situation, the players and staff of the team are very worried about their families and relatives. 21 year old Sara Didar said that the players are trying to give their best on the field, but due to being away from home, there is fear and anxiety in everyone’s mind.
What did the coach say?
Team head coach Marjiye Jafri said that it would not be right to comment too much on the current situation. According to him, the players should concentrate completely on the tournament for now and try to qualify for the Women’s World Cup to be held next year.
Victory is necessary in the next match
Talking about the match, after the defeat against Australia, the Iran team now faces a big challenge. If the team wants to maintain hopes of reaching the knockout round, it will have to register a big win against Philippines in its last group match.
Protests were seen outside the stadium also
During the match, some protesters also gathered outside the stadium, who raised slogans against the government of Iran. Many people of Iranian origin came inside the stadium to support the team. Local resident Nasreen Waziri said that there is a lot of pressure on the players, but despite this they are representing the country. According to him, “These players are very courageous and we are proud of them.”