World Cup 2018: Egypt keeper Mohamed El-Shenawy refuses Man of the Match award after incredible display against Uruguay… because of Budweiser sponsorship
Inexperienced No1 put in a stunning display to keep Luis Suarez and Co at bay for so long but had to reject his reward
EGYPT goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy had to refuse his Man of the Match award following his incredible display against Uruguay... because of its Budweiser link.
The inexperienced No1, 29, put in a stunning display to keep Luis Suarez and Co at bay for so long, making save-after-save.
But he was forced to reject the traditional post-match reward - as his religion forbids the consumption of alcohol.
Budweiser are the official Fifa World Cup 2018 sponsor of the Man of the Match award - presenting the game's best player with an artistic red goblet.
Following the game, El-Shenawy was seen raising a hand to snub the gift - sparking something of a debate.
One social media user pointed out that three North African nations - including Egypt - join Saudi Arabia and Iran in traditionally avoiding alcohol.
Meanwhile, a host of other Muslim stars playing for other teams would likely say now to the Bud.
Alcoholic awards have been quashed in the Premier League after a series of awkward moments down the years with Muslim stars, instead handing out mini trophies.
In 2012, Yaya Toure turned down the traditional post-match bottle of bubbly, saying: "I don't drink because I am a Muslim, so you keep it."
Meanwhile a hatful of stars including Mesut Ozil and Paul Pogba are also Muslim and unlikely to accept the massive bottle of beer in Russia.
