World Cup: Muslim players face Ramadan decision

With Holy Ramadan knocking at the door, Muslim players at the World Cup, including Germany’s Mesut Ozil and France’s Karim Benzema face decision about whether they will have to play during fasting hours in the Muslim month of fasting. The knockout rounds of the 2014 FIFA World Cup coinciding with the beginning of Ramadan. Besides France and Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Algeria and Nigeria are among the teams that have Muslim players who may choose to observe the month-long religious fast which begins this weekend. During the 30-day period of fasting and reflection, all healthy adult Muslims are expected to refrain from eating and drinking during daylight hours. The 1st of Ramadan is likely to fall on June 30 when the World Cup 2nd round begins, according to a news agency.