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.

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

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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.

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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.

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

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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.”

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

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

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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.

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

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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.

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