Germany's soccer players covered their mouths for the team photo before their World Cup opener against Japan on Wednesday. Coach Hansi Flick say they wanted to send a message that FIFA, world soccer's governing body, is silencing them.

Flick was speaking at a news conference after Germany's shock 2-1 defeat.

Several European teams, including Germany, had planned to have their captains wear armbands with a rainbow design featuring the words "One Love" to express their opposition to discrimination.

But they later gave up the idea after FIFA warned against it.

The German soccer federation posted the team photo on its website and Twitter account. It said, "Human rights are non-negotiable" and "Denying us the armband is the same as denying us a voice. We stand by our position."

Flick said Germany is "seriously disappointed" with its loss against Japan. He said his team missed a lot of scoring chances despite having better ball possession.

Asked if the armband situation was a distraction, Flick responded, "No. We are not looking for excuses."

Flick told reporters he had said before the game the Japanese team is strong and tactical with skillful players, and that they demonstrated their strength.