Iranian footballers who defied Tehran become Australian citizens - BBC News

There were among seven to be granted humanitarian visas while playing in Australia - but the other five changed their minds and returned to Iran.

Image source, Jack TranImage caption, Atefeh Ramezanisadeh (left) and Fatemeh Pasandideh said they were proud to be Australian nationals

Two Iranian female footballers who publicly defied their government have become Australian citizens.

Atefeh Ramezanisadeh, 34, and Fatemeh Pasandideh, 22, were naturalised in Brisbane, Queensland, on Wednesday.

Ramezanisadeh said it was a "truly special and unforgettable day", while her teammate said "this moment means more than words can express".

They were among seven members of Iran's national team to be granted humanitarian visas while in Australia for the Women's Asian Cup in March - but the other five changed their minds and returned home.