Iran ready to do it for women fans says Karim
IRAN striker Karim Ansarifard said it will be an honour to play for female fans at the World Cup.
Women are banned from stadiums in Iran, although pressure from FIFA has seen that rule relaxed recently for a handful of international games.
With anti-Government protests ongoing back home over the subordination of women – following the highprofile death of Mahsa Amini – Ansarifard was asked for a message for his female fans.
Human rights activists estimate 15,800 people have been detained and 341 killed in the protests in Iran.
Ansarifard, who scored for Omonia Nicosia against Manchester United in a 3-2 Europa League defeat last month, said all fans must be made welcome when Iran open theirWorld Cup campaign against England on Monday.
He said: “This is an absolute honour for myself, for my country, for my people, for my team-mates, for everyone regardless of who comes to the stadium
“We play for all men and women from our country...there are no exceptions.
“I wanted to thank you for raising this question.
“With all the respect I have for supporters around the world, Iran has one of the best [sets of] fans.
“All Iranian fans are well known for being very passionate, very loyal to the teams, not only the football national team but all national teams, even at club level.
“We have very passionate fans, they are famous for it and we are very proud of that.”
Iran defender Morteza Poulariganji hailed coach Carlos Queiroz, a former assistant at United, for bringing the squad together during his second spell in charge.
“The biggest strength he brings is a huge sense of team unity,” said Poulariganji.
“I think with the presence of Mr Queiroz, all my team-mates are happier and more united.”