CAF will not punish Wakaso for ‘Allah is Great’ celebration

Published on: 28 January 2013

Ghana midfielder Mubarak Wakaso is unlikely to be punished by CAF over the words on his T-shirt during his celebration in last week 2013 Africa Cup of Nations match.

Wakaso was booked for displaying a slogan when he lifted up his jersey to reveal "Allah is Great" emblazoned on his T-shirt during the match against Mali on Thursday in Port Elizabeth.

His celebration, when he pulled his team shirt over his face to reveal the words 'Allah is Great!' on a T-shirt underneath, was feared could have more repercussions for Ghana.

But CAF officials at the tournament in South Africa have been reluctant to answer GHANAsoccernet.com questions over the issue as several players in the past have celebrated using religious slogans.

Brazilian star Kaka was pictured in the past to have worn a T-shirt with the words: ‘I belong Jesus’ which was not published.

South African star Steven Pienaar has also celebrated with a ‘God is Great’ message emblazoned on his T-shirt during a match but was not punished.

As such CAF could be accused of religious bias if they take action against the Ghana star Wakaso who received a yellow card for the incident.

The yellow card was already his second of the group stage to leave him facing a one-match suspension, although it wasn't clear if it was for pulling off his shirt or for the message underneath.

Either way, FIFA rules also don't allow players to display political or religious slogans on the field.

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