Iran’s silent protest

IRAN’S footballers refused to sing their own national anthem yesterday as their country continued to be engulfed in turmoil.

They stood silent in apparent solidarity with demonstrators taking on the Islamic regime.

Activists say more than 400 protesters have died after the death of Mahsa Amini, 22.

She died in police custody after being arrested for not wearing a hijab. Some fans also booed the anthem while waving flags.

Women were visibly upset and others held up signs saying “Woman, Life, Freedom”.

Iranian fans also chanted “Ali Karimi”, an ex-footballer who is a critic of Iran’s leaders.

Iran captain Ehsan Hajsafi said the players “support those who died” while boss Carlos Queiroz added his team was “free to protest”.

TAKING A STAND Iran’s players snub their national anthem