Iran has released more than 700 prisoners after the national team won their Group match against Wales in FIFA World Cup 2022.

Iran, the country that is facing extreme protests from all quarters due to the September 16 death in custody of Mahsa Amini, has released “709 detainees were freed from different prisons in the country” as announced by its judiciary’s Mizan Online website. The release of prisoners followed the 2-0 victory of Iran against Wales in the FIFA World Cup 2022.

State news agency IRNA reported that former state television host Mahmoud Shahriari, was released after two months in prison. Other reports from media said that prominent Iranian actor Hengameh Ghaziani had been released on bail after her arrest for having supported the protests. Former international footballer Voria Ghafouri and dissident Hossein Ronaghi were also released on bail.

After their first match loss to England by 2-6, Iran bounced back in their second match and defeated Wales 2-0. They scored twice in the stoppage time of the second half to stun Wales and breathe new life into its World Cup campaign.