American coach Gregg Berhalter has apologised to Iran over the ‘Flag-gate’ scandal that overshadowed their decisive match at the 2022 World Cup.
USA Manager Gregg Berhalter Apologises Over ‘Flag-Gate’ Scandal Amid The Country’s Upcoming World Cup Match With Iran
No one on the team or staff was aware that US Soccer officials had posted an altered photo of the Iranian flag with the emblem of the Islamic Republic removed on social media, Berhalter said.
Reports claimed that Iran wanted FIFA to expel the United States team from the tournament due to the gesture in support of human rights protesters in their country.
In his comments, though, Berhalter said: “The players and staff had no idea what US Soccer has put out – and sometimes these things are out of your control. We can only apologise on behalf of the players and staff.
“Our thoughts are with the Iranian people – but we must be totally focused on this match.” That was not the only source of controversy, though. In addition to expressing remorse throughout a press conference, midfielder Tyler Adams was criticised after pronouncing Iran incorrectly.
How can a black man represent a country riddled with racism, Adams was asked, to which he replied: “My apologies for my mispronunciation of your country. There is discrimination everywhere you go, but playing abroad has allowed me to assimilate into different cultures.
“It’s about education – like you have just educated me in how to pronounce the name of your country.” The fans on social media had a lot to say about the matter. A certain subset felt that an apology was the right thing since it would diffuse the situation.
Meanwhile, others simply were of the view that things had been blown out of proportion. One person wrote: “Tyler and Gregg handled the ridiculous questioning coming from certain factions of the press well.”
The sooner this is put to bed, then the better it is for everyone. And the outcome of the meeting between the USA and Iran will help to do just that. So there you have it folks. What did you think about this? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
If you liked reading this article, then check out our other features on the Daily Soap Dish. Please also visit The Over Timer for all of the latest exciting news on all of your favorite daytime.
