DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iranian state TV says two players have been suspended from the country’s professional soccer league for an “immoral” goal-scoring celebration.
The report Monday says Mohammed Nosrati of Persepolis squeezed the backside of teammate Sheis Rezaei while the Tehran team’s players celebrated a goal against Damash Gilan. After Persepolis scored again in the 3-2 victory, YouTube footage appears to show Rezaei squeezing an unidentified teammate.
Nosrati and Rezaei say they did not intend to offend. Iran TV said they were indefinitely banned from entering any stadium and could face more sanctions.
Saturday’s game was broadcast live to millions in the Islamic country that for years has tried to curb rowdy on-field behavior and foul language by players and spectators.
