Nigeria, Feb. 9 -- The group claims several players and sports officials have been killed or detained in recent months, raising fears for athletes linked to protests and dissent. Particular concern surrounds two players currently in detention who reportedly face the death penalty, including a teenage striker with a top-flight club and a former professional banned from playing.



The News Chronicle understands that these cases have sparked alarm within Iran's football community, with campaigners warning that young athletes are increasingly vulnerable amid heightened political repression. Sports researchers and former internationals say repeated appeals have been sent to FIFA and players' unions, calling for pressure on Tehran to halt ex...