2022---world-cup-2022--german-players-gag-just-before-the-match-against-japan File

Before their opening match against on November 23, 2022, all 11 German starters covered their mouths with their right hands during the official team photo at Khalifa International Stadium . This symbolic gesture was a response to FIFA’s last-minute threat of "sporting sanctions"—specifically a yellow card for captains—if they wore the multi-colored "OneLove" armband .

The German national team’s "gag" gesture during the was a coordinated silent protest against FIFA for muzzling their voices . The Protest: "Silencing Us" Before their opening match against on November 23,

The released a statement simultaneously on social media, clarifying their stance: clarifying their stance: