Player Slams GFA for Punishing Him For Displaying ‘I Love Jesus’ Message But Ignores LGBTQ+

Nations FC striker Emmanuel Annor has slammed the Ghana Football Association (GFA) following disciplinary action taken against him for expressing his faith during a league match.

The 22-year-old player has become the centre of a growing debate over freedom of expression in football after he was fined and received a formal warning for revealing a religious message during a match.

On April 20, Nations FC won 2-0 against Asante Kotoko in the Ghana Premier League, and during the game, Annor found the back of the net and celebrated in a way that sparked controversy.

He scored the second goal, and in celebration, he lifted his jersey to unveil the words “I love Jesus” printed on his undershirt.

The Referee, Alphonso Atiapa, immediately booked the forward according to the laws of the game as it is prohibited.

The GFA’s law has since drawn widespread reaction online, where fans and pundits on various media platforms have questioned the rationale behind the decision.

Annor also took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his dissatisfaction with the perceived double standards.

He said, “Why can football players celebrate LGBTQ+ $exuality but not their love for Jesus?”

“Romans 14:8 – 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. ✟ It’s the kingdom work on the pitch!” He added.