Never mind the guys on the opposing team: some Muslim athletes heading into World Cup play face heady internal competition between the rigors of fasting and football.
Saturday marked the start of Ramadan, the Islamic month of contemplation, prayer and fasting. While there are exemptions – for infirmity, advanced age or physically demanding jobs – most devout Muslims refrain from eating or drinking anything from sunrise to sunset.
For Muslim athletes playing in the World Cup, this is an especially difficult challenge: this year is the first time in nearly three decades that the World Cup coincides with Ramadan.
Read more at VOANews.com.