Many Iranian fans at the stadium expressed concerns that pro-regime supporters and plainclothes Iranian agents were filling the crowds, filming and identifying protesters.

Iranian soccer players remained silent during the Iran national anthem during the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar amid Mahsa Amini protests.

The Iran national soccer team refused to sing its national anthem prior to its start against England at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Iranian coach Carlos Queiroz talked about the politically charged World Cup ahead of the squad's pivotal match against the United States.

Iran arrested Voria Ghafouri, a prominent former member of its national soccer team, over his criticism of the government as authorities grapple with nationwide protests.

Peyvand Mossavat, an Iranian-born Canadian former soccer player and now coach, told CNN Sport. In the buildup to the World Cup in Qatar, there were calls for Iran to be thrown out of the tournament.