Australia vs Iran: Sayer Praises Brave Iranians

Amy Sayer set for bigger role vs Iran at Asian Cup

Australia's Amy Sayer praises Iran's bravery at Asian Cup amidst homeland turmoil. Iran faces Australia after 3-0 loss to South Korea.

“We're excited and looking forward to the game ⁠on Thursday...”

Amy Sayer, Australia's midfielder, is praising the Iran women's football team for their bravery in competing in the Asian Cup amidst the turmoil back home. Iran's country is experiencing intense political unrest and military strikes, making their participation in the tournament all the more remarkable.

𝗙𝗧 | 🇰🇷 Korea Republic 3️⃣-0️⃣ IR Iran 🇮🇷

Korea Republic kick off their #WAC2026 campaign in emphatic fashion to take all three points!#KORvIRN pic.twitter.com/VFLsBEfiEK

— #WAC2026 (@afcasiancup) March 2, 2026

The teams are set to face off on Thursday on the Gold Coast, after Iran's 3-0 loss to South Korea on Monday. 

The Iranian team put up a spirited fight despite the tough conditions, stepping onto the field after US and Israeli air strikes hit their country over the weekend.

“Our heart goes out to them and their families, it's ‌a difficult situation, and it's really brave ⁠of them to be ‌able to be here and to perform,” Sayer said on Tuesday.

“They played last night, and they put on a really strong performance, even with the political climate that's going on and the struggles that they might be going through.

“We're excited and looking forward to the game ⁠on Thursday ... The best we can do to contribute is to just give them the best game of football that we're able and to show them the respect on the field.

"Hopefully the ‌situation improves, and they can keep staying safe in Australia.”

Iran's players showed respect by standing for their national anthem before the South Korea match, but remained silent throughout the game. The team and head coach Marziyeh Jafari chose not to comment on the situation or the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who passed away on Saturday.

“They are another team in the tournament, and you don't want ‌to give them any space in order to give ​away any competitive advantage, regardless of the situation,” Sayer ‌said.

“Of course, we are all kind humans, and we can give them a 'hello' and a 'good luck' to wish them well.”

Amy Sayer, the 24-year-old Australian midfielder, is likely to see more action in Thursday's match against Iran, after coming on as a substitute in Australia's 1-0 win over the Philippines on Sunday. This could be a big opportunity for Sayer to shine, especially given her impressive performances for the Matildas so far.