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Iran Soccer Team Protests Schoolgirls' Deaths in Friendly Match

3/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Iran's men's soccer team protested schoolgirls' killings by wearing black armbands and carrying schoolbags during the anthem before a friendly against Nigeria at Belek.
The gesture referenced the Shajareh Tayyebeh School attack, which Tehran says killed over 175.
Mehdi Mohammad Nabi, vice president of the Iranian football federation, said players wanted solidarity with victims.
Iran lost 2-1 to Nigeria and remains uncertain about participating in the World Cup, with Costa Rica next.

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Story summary

Iran's men's soccer team protested schoolgirls' killings by wearing black armbands and carrying schoolbags during the anthem before a friendly against Nigeria at Belek.
The gesture referenced the Shajareh Tayyebeh School attack, which Tehran says killed over 175.
Mehdi Mohammad Nabi, vice president of the Iranian football federation, said players wanted solidarity with victims.
Iran lost 2-1 to Nigeria and remains uncertain about participating in the World Cup, with Costa Rica next.