Nations FC striker Emmanuel Annor has openly condemned the Ghana Football Association (GFA) over a GHS500 fine for displaying a religious message during a Ghana Premier League match against Asante Kotoko on Sunday, April 20, at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex in Abrankese.

To celebrate his goal, he removed his jersey to reveal an inscription boldly written on his undershirt, which read: “I belong to Jesus.”

The move attracted disciplinary action from the GFA who ruled that the player's action was a breach of football laws which bar the display of religious or political messages during matches.

In reaction to this, Annor took to social media to question why homosexuality is openly celebrated in football while players are not allowed to proclaim their religion.

“Why can football players celebrate LGBTQ+ sexuality but not their love for Christ?” he questioned.

He quoted Romans 14:8 in his post: “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”

Annor ended his post with a bold affirmation of his faith: “It’s the Kingdom’s work on the pitch!”

GFA has, however, warned that stricter punishment awaits him if he repeats the offence.

The GFA's decision aligns with Law 4 of the International Football Association Board (IFAB), which states that players must not reveal undergarments with political, religious, or personal slogans, statements, or images.

This rule is enforced globally to maintain neutrality and professionalism in football.

Annor's display of his inscription comes exactly 7 days after Cody Gakpo faced an FA reprimand after copying Kaka's iconic 'I belong to Jesus' celebration during Liverpool's win over Tottenham.