Amid war back home, resilient Iran continues its Women’s Asian Cup campaign with hope

When Iran stepped onto the pitch for its AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 opener against South Korea at the Robina Stadium, it was natural for the players not to be completely focused as a war raged on back home, which started with a major attack by Israel and the United States.

While its national anthem was played in the stadium, none of the Iranian players or even head coach Marziyeh Jafari sang along as they all donned sombre faces, holding back tears.

None of the Iranian players sang the national anthem as it was played ahead of their AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 match against South Korea.
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Getty Images

A few smiles came out after a bit as the players acknowledged a small group of supporters in red, white and green national colours in one part of the stadium.

Iran fans cheer for their team during its AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 match against South Korea.
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Getty Images

Despite the ongoing conflict, the only thing the players could do was to focus on football. That was the general consensus in the team. Even ahead of the game, Jafari had declined to comment on the military strikes or the death of her country’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and chose to focus on the task at hand.

Iran’s Head Coach Marziyeh Jafari Baravati (left) gives instructions to players during her side’s AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 match against South Korea.
| Photo Credit:
AFP

In the end, however, the match ended 3-0 in favour of South Korea with Choe Yu-ri, Kim Hye-ri and Ko Yoo-jin getting on the scoresheet.

Iran next takes on Australia at the same venue on the Gold Coast.

Published on Mar 03, 2026