Tensions are building at the World Cup in Qatar as organisers defend the no beer ban, plus Qatar’s record on LGBT rights.
Now Iran’s players refused to sing their national anthem before their first game of the World Cup against England.
Apparently in support of anti-government protesters in their homeland.
Ahead of the game in Qatar, the team’s captain refused to say whether or not the team would sing the national anthem in a show of solidarity for demonstrations that have rocked the regime in Iran.
The Iranian players stood grim-faced as their anthem rang out around the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha.
Iran has been shaken by two months of nationwide protests since the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini.
Some Iranian athletes have chosen not to sing the national anthem or celebrate their victories in support of the protesters.
Even fans in the stands were seen booing their own country’s national anthem.
