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Champions League Match Pauses for Ramadan Fast-Breaking in Lille

The referee halted play eight minutes into the game to allow Muslim players to break their fast after sunset, reflecting cultural sensitivity in sports.

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Der BVB kämpft in Lille um den Einzug ins Viertelfinale der Champions League. Das Hinspiel endete 1:1
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Overview

  • The Champions League match between OSC Lille and Borussia Dortmund was paused after eight minutes for players observing Ramadan to break their fast.
  • The pause was timed to sunset, which occurred three minutes after kickoff, allowing players to consume food and drink for around 60 seconds.
  • Referee Sandro Schärer’s decision to permit the pause was praised as a significant gesture of respect for players' religious practices.
  • Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac acknowledged that Ramadan influenced team selection, with considerations for players' energy levels during fasting.
  • Ramadan, a holy month in Islam, involves daily fasting from dawn to sunset, with fast-breaking traditionally occurring after sunset.