Iran women's team exits Malaysia after asylum reversal

"The Iranian women's soccer team is set to leave Malaysia on Monday night, ending days of uncertainty after most of the seven squad members who sparked a diplomatic furor by seeking asylum in Australia reversed their decisions and rejoined the team in Kuala Lumpur."

"The squad flew from Sydney to Kuala Lumpur on March 10 after being knocked out of the Women's Asian Cup in Australia, initially leaving behind six players and a support staff member who had accepted protection visas. Four players and the staffer have since rejoined the team in Kuala Lumpur, the latest flying in on Monday."

"Windsor said at a news conference earlier that his confederation had not received any direct complaints from players about returning home, despite media reports their families in Iran could face retaliation for the team failing to sing their national anthem before the opening match."

The Iranian women's soccer team departed Malaysia on Monday night after most of seven squad members who had sought asylum in Australia rejoined the team. Four players and one support staff member reversed their asylum decisions and returned to Kuala Lumpur, with the latest arrival on Monday. The team had flown to Malaysia after being eliminated from the Women's Asian Cup in Australia. The Asian Football Confederation arranged the departure through the Iranian embassy, with the team flying to Oman as an intermediate destination. The AFC and FIFA committed to regular check-ins with the Iranian football federation regarding player safety. Two players remained in Australia. The squad's earlier silence during the national anthem sparked speculation about resistance or mourning, though no official explanation was provided.

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