It was a curious sight indeed when the Champions League clash between Borussia Dortmund and Lille was paused barely eight minutes in. Hot on the heels of an electric opener by Jonathan David in the fifth minute, the action was interrupted by Swiss referee Sandro Schรคrer, all thanks to the observance of Ramadan. The atmosphere at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy was crackling, and then suddenly, the players found themselves on the sidelines.
The cause for the break? Many of the professionals on the pitch were observing Ramadan, which forbids eating or drinking from dawn until sunset. That sunset, fortuitously for them, coincided with match time, allowing those fasting, including BVB's Serhou Guirassy, an opportunity to hydrate and refuel.
As players swiftly knelt on the grass and took in some sustenance, DAZN analyst Tobias Schweinsteiger lauded the early interruption, stating, โItโs a significant gesture to allow this pause. Faith is crucial to these lads, and it's often overlooked. Itโs heartening to see such respect being given in European football.โ
BVB's coach Niko Kovac had acknowledged Ramadan's impact on the team selection, notably leaving defender Ramy Bensebaini out of the starting lineup. โAs coaches, we support this naturally. Itโs commendable that they observe their faith, but we also have to ensure we put out players who possess the necessary stamina,โ remarked Kovac, ensuring faith and fitness walked hand in hand.
During Ramadan, observant Muslims abstain from all food, drink, smoking, and intimacy from dawn until dusk, with evening gatherings becoming a time for breaking the fast. This sacred practice is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is vital for many of the players on the pitch.
``` Resource: "https://www.sport1.de/news/fussball/champions-league/2025/03/champions-league-aussergewohnliche-unterbrechung-bei-bvb-spiel-in-lille