Iranian fans support Trump as the women’s team sings the national anthem at the Asian Cup
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Iran’s women’s soccer team appeared to change their stance at the Women’s Asian Cup on Thursday, singing and cheering during the national anthem ahead of their match against Australia.
Meanwhile, Iranian supporters have voiced their support for President Donald Trump in protests amid the ongoing military campaign against Iran.
Before the start of the match against Australia, the women’s team took a prominent part in the singing of the national anthem. Women were seen greeting as the rain added to this difficult time.
Islamic Republic of Iran players line up for the national anthem before the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 match between Islamic Republic of Iran and Australia Matildas at Gold Coast Stadium in Gold Coast, Australia, March 5, 2026. (Albert Perez/Getty Images)
It was a stark contrast to the opening game against South Korea, where the women’s team was silent as Iran coach Marziyeh Jafari was also silent and smiling at her team. The silence was interpreted by some as an act of resistance amid ongoing US and Israeli military strikes against Iran.
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But, according to reports, the team was “ordered” to participate in their next game. The team has been silent on this issue since before the start of the tournament. The Women’s Asian Cup did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
On the eve of Iran’s 4-0 defeat against Australia, Iranian striker Sara Didar was in tears as she discussed the concerns of players and their family managers and loved ones during the war.
“Obviously we are all worried and saddened by what happened in Iran and our families in Iran,” Didar said in comments translated into English during a press conference. “I hope that our country will have good news ahead. And I hope that my country will be very alive.”
Iranian supporters hold a banner during the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 soccer match between Iran and Australia in Gold Coast, Australia, on March 5, 2026. (Izhar Khan / AFP via Getty Images)
Jafari and other players declined to answer questions about the fight at their opening press conference on Sunday. On Wednesday, the moderators asked reporters to stick to football-related questions.
Meanwhile, Iranian fans voiced their support for Trump and a free Iran during Thursday’s game. Pre-Islamic Revolution flags were seen being waved in the crowd, while others held up signs bearing Trump’s name.
Iranian supporters show signs showing support for US President Donald Trump during the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 football match between Iran and Australia in Gold Coast, Australia, on March 5, 2026. (Izhar Khan / AFP via Getty Images)
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In his first video comment posted on Truth Social, Trump encouraged the people of Iran to take over their government once the United States and Israel have completed “major combat operations” in Iran.
“The hour of your freedom is near. Stay protected. Do not leave your home. It is very dangerous outside,” he said, addressing the Iranian people. “This will be, perhaps, your chance of a lifetime. For years, you’ve asked for America’s help, but you didn’t get it. No President was willing to do what I’m willing to do tonight. Now you have a President who gives you what you want.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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