The current situation in Iran is not good. Protests are gathering momentum. Many sports persons and renowned personalities are supporting the protesters against the dress code. It is not an ideal situation for Iran’s national soccer team, who are playing in the ongoing FIFA World Cup.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The former Iran international soccer star Voria Ghafouri is one of the vocal supporters and is backing the protests against the dress code. According to the reports, Iran has arrested him, citing his criticism of the current regime. It came as a shock to the Iran team.
Voria Ghafouri was arrested and then released on bail
Ghafouri is an Iranian soccer player who plays for Foolad F.C. in the Persian Gulf Pro League. He captains the side. The 35-year-old has played for Iran and was part of the 2018 Iran FIFA World Cup squad. For the most part of his career, he played as a right-back. Additionally, he plays as a right winger too. The news of his arrest shocked many of his teammates and former managers.
Iranian media report that outspoken footballer Voria Ghafouri was arrested earlier today for "insulting and undermining the national football team" & "propaganda against the establishment".
Ghafouri, an ethnic Kurd, has supported the protests & condemned the crackdown on Kurds. pic.twitter.com/sYXxR2HLZ3
— Kian Sharifi (@KianSharifi) November 24, 2022
He got arrested a few days back for his active support of civil rights. This drew outrage from many soccer fans and Iranian people. The news of his arrest shocked many of his teammates and former managers. According to the new reports, Iran has released Ghafouri on bail conditions. The Iran situation is getting worse with every passing day.
As a result of the protests in Iran, Iran’s national team was silent during the national anthem before the England match. The team’s gesture won the hearts of many but also drew concerns from some sections of the fans. However, the situation changed in the next game where players sang the national anthem.
The families of Iran’s World Cup soccer team have been threatened with imprisonment and torture if the players fail to “behave” ahead of the match against the USA on Tuesday, a source involved in the security of the games tells @kileycnn
— Natasha Bertrand (@NatashaBertrand) November 28, 2022
Although, things aren’t settling down for the national team. According to the new reports, the team has been warned ahead of their crucial match against the USA. Iran’s national team will have to cope with it as well as the pressure of the USA game. On the other hand, fans are hoping for soccer to be the change for the people in Iran.
Iran vs USA at the FIFA WC 2022
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Iran is second in group B with three points whereas, the USA is third with two points. Both teams are aware of the fact that a win will guarantee them a spot in knockouts. If England beat Wales, a draw for Iran will be sufficient to progress. On the other hand, the USA needs a win to qualify.
via Reuters
Soccer Football – FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 – Group B – Wales v Iran – Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan, Qatar – November 25, 2022 Iran players celebrate after the match REUTERS/Hannah Mckay
The games of group B will kick off at the same time. This will add to the excitement of the fans. Iran is coming into the game with a confidence-boosting win against Wales. On the other hand, the USA team settled for a second draw in the group stage against England.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Watch This Story: Kobe Bryant’s Biggest Soccer Affiliations
Let us know about your feelings about the situation in Iran. Don’t forget to rush in your predictions for the Iran-USA game.
