Hundreds of supporters gathered outside the Gold Coast stadium on Sunday as Iran’s women’s football team left after their final Asian Cup match, chanting “Save our girls” and urging the players to stay safe.

Reported by BBC, concerns grew after the team refused to sing the national anthem before their opening match against South Korea, drawing backlash from conservative figures in Iran who called them “wartime traitors.” Former Australian captain and human rights advocate Craig Foster warned the players could face risks if they return home, stressing that teams in international tournaments must be guaranteed safety and support.

The players later sang the anthem in matches against Australia and the Philippines, which critics believe may have followed pressure from members of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps reportedly accompanying the delegation. Supporters from Australia’s Iranian community filled the stands, booing the anthem and waving the pre-revolution Lion and Sun flag in solidarity.

Interaction between fans and the team was limited, though one injured player briefly blew a kiss to the crowd. Activists fear the players cannot speak freely and have urged Australia to offer asylum if they wish to stay, though many may hesitate because their families remain in Iran.

Team manager Marziyeh Jafari dismissed speculation about staying abroad, saying the squad is eager to return home. Australia’s government has not said whether asylum would be offered, though Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed solidarity with Iranian women.

Tight security was placed around the team’s hotel as uncertainty remains over when the delegation will leave Australia and whether the players will return directly to Iran.