Algerian Coach Says It Is Up To Players To Go On Ramadan Fast

Algerian coach Vahid Halilhodzic has spoken on his team's behalf regarding the Ramadan fast ahead of Monday's round of 16 game with Germany.

In a chat with the press, the Bosnian tactician said that it was a private matter for his players if they wanted to fast and had no say in their practise, accusing the journalist of disrespect and unethical conduct for posing that sort of question.

''It is not the first time I have had Muslim players in my team. I myself am a Muslim. I've always let them be free, this is a private question and when you ask this you lack respect.

"The players will do as they wish. This is private. You should talk about football and nothing else. Stop asking me about Ramadan otherwise I will get up and leave," Halilhodzic said.

Algeria take on Germany on Monday June 30 in the 2014 FIFA World Cup round of 16; the two teams first met at the World Cup in 1982 when the Algerians shocked the entire world with a 2-1 victory over the then World champions.