Soccer Extreme : Sevilla striker Freddie Kanoute used last night’s Copa Del Rey match with Deportivo La Coruna as the backdrop to publicise his message of support for the Palestinian people during the current war in Gaza with Israel.With the Mali striker having scored Sevilla’s second of the night, Kanoute, a devote Muslim, lifted his shirt to reveal his under-shirt which had “Palestine” written across it.
As may have been expected Kanoute was shown a yellow card for his behaviour, however it can be assumed that the forward took his booking on the chin for his greater goal of publicising his political message.
Kanoute's goal celebration can be seen here.
Speaking to Radio Marca, Mahmud Aluanen, counsellor for the embassy, expressed his gratitude to Kanouté, and said that he believes many back in his country will be grateful too.
"It is a very important step," he began.
"The Sevilla striker has shown himself to be very brave by supporting our region in a public act like he did.
"Sportsmen are human beings, and they cannot hide their feelings. They have all the right in the world to express their opinions in areas that question human rights. I am sure that all Palestinian children, who love Spanish football, will be moved by this gesture."
Kanouté has been a staunch follower of Islam since he turned 20 and back in 2006/2007 refused to wear a shirt sponsored by gambling website 888.com, because betting is against Islamic principles.
