One of the biggest talking points so far in this World Cup is Germany vs. Japan game. The Japanese pulled off a really big upset, coming back from a goal down to secure a victory against the 4-time world champions, and fans have not been able to stop talking about it.

But there’s something else that happened before the game even kicked off that fans have also been talking about. More like asking about, it because not many understand the relevance of that gesture. Well, we’re here to explain.

For those who missed it, before that game, the German players all put their hands over their mouths while they posed for their team photo. Why did they do that? Well, obviously, to send a message.

What message? That they will not be silenced.

Silenced about what? Okay, you know what? Let’s just start from the beginning.