1.668097-886935809
Image Credit: Gulf News Archive

Singapore: With the controversy over their head scarves settled, the Iranian girls football team can concentrate on winning matches at the Youth Olympics.

The Iranians lost to Turkey in their opening match but have a chance for a victory in the six-nation tournament on Sunday against Papua New Guinea.

Until now, the Iranians have attracted plenty of scrutiny and curiosity mostly because of their outfits. Unlike Western players, they wear leggings and a specialy-designed head covering.

The outfit is a compromise with football governing body Fifa, which has banned traditional hijab headscarves in 2007 for safety reasons and to prevent political or religious statements on the field.

The hijab is worn to protect the modesty of Islamic girls and women.