Following their 0-2 loss to the Philippines in the final group A match of the Women's Asian Cup 2026 in Gold Coast, Coach Marziyeh Jafari expressed a desire to return to Iran with her team. She stated, "I want to be with my country and the people of Iran. We are eager to return home," speaking through an interpreter at the post-match press conference. This marked a departure from her usual cautious approach to non-football matters during the tournament.
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Coach Marziyeh Jafari salutes the flag and sings the national anthem before Iran's match against the Philippines in the final group A game of the Women's Asian Cup 2026, at Gold Coast Stadium, Queensland, Australia on the evening of 8/3/2026. *Photo: AP* |
Jafari's statement surfaced amid growing concerns for the team's safety from political figures and the Iranian diaspora. Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, son of the former Shah of Iran, highlighted the significant pressure players face due to the political climate at home. He urged the Australian government to ensure their safety and provide necessary support. Outside Gold Coast Stadium last night, protestors gathered, chanting slogans and displaying symbols of the opposition movement as the team bus departed, calling for the players' safe return.
International football organizations are closely monitoring the situation. The International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPro) confirmed it is engaging with authorities and governing bodies to protect player welfare. Beau Busch, FIFPro's Asia-Oceania chairman, emphasized that the safety and freedom of choice for national team members are current priorities.
Busch added that the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) are also participating in discussions to find a suitable resolution. The goal is to ensure each player can decide their future. "Some may want to return, others may want to stay longer or seek other options," Busch explained. "The important thing is that they must have the right to choose."
The Iran women's team faces a complex situation. Players could encounter pressure if they return home, yet staying abroad is not a simple choice either. Australian reports suggest that families of players in Iran could be affected if the team members do not go back.
Despite the complexities, members of the Iranian community in Australia voiced respect for the players' individual choices, whether they opt to return or pursue opportunities to remain abroad. "The important thing is that they have the right to decide," a community member told ABC.
By Hoang An (Source: ABC)
