#iran-womens-soccer

#iran-womens-soccer

Iranian women's soccer players faced government pressure and family threats after protesting during the national anthem, ultimately returning to Iran despite asylum offers from Australia and the U.S.

Iran's women's soccer team captain rescinded her asylum application in Australia and will return to Iran, with five of seven players who initially sought asylum reversing their decisions.

Five Iranian women's soccer players defected to Australian police custody after the team's third match at the 2026 Women's Asian Cup, following state threats over their anthem protest during wartime.