Escaping Iran: The footballers who risked their lives

Atefeh Ramezanisadeh and Fatemeh Pasandideh knew refusing to sing Iran’s national anthem could cost them their freedom, their families – or even their lives.

Six months later, the two footballers are Australian citizens, building a new life in Brisbane after becoming the only members of their team to remain here.

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Their decision began at the Asian Cup on the Gold Coast in March, when Iran’s women’s team stood in silence during the anthem in support of protesters killed by the regime.

“I was scared at times, but I just tried to do what was right,” Pasandideh told 60 Minutes.

“We just wanted to … stand with our people.”

The response from Iran was chilling. State television branded the players traitors and called for them to be punished.

Ramezanisadeh said she knew torture was among the possible consequences of returning home, but still, she could not bring herself to sing.

“The only thing that gave me peace and a clear conscience was not singing it,” she said.

Seven players were offered the chance to stay in Australia, but intense regime pressure on loved ones back home compelled five to return.

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Ramezanisadeh and Pasandideh held firm.

Last month, Immigration Minister Tony Burke granted them Australian citizenship.

They now train with Brisbane club Wynnum Wolves, study English, and are working to rebuild the football careers they left behind.

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Asked to describe what Australia had given her in one word, Pasandideh answered simply.

“Freedom.”

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