Hossein Hosseini, goalkeeper for Esteghlal FC, was ordered to pay three billion rials after briefly embracing the woman, who was not wearing a hijab, IranWire reports.

The Football Federation of Iran said his actions were “unprofessional and beyond the legal duties of a player” and also imposed a one-match suspension.

In an interview, Mr Hosseini said: “I will pay the fine for the sake of that woman fan.”

Reports suggest he may face further disciplinary action for making that comment.