Dortmund fans criticise Nmecha over goal celebration methods

Nmecha's goal celebrations linked to evangelical network 'Ballers in God' spark backlash from Dortmund supporters over alleged homophobic and transphobic views.

Felix Nmecha scored twice in Borussia Dortmund's 2-1 win over Elversberg on Saturday, keeping the club level on points with Bayern Munich at the top of the Bundesliga. However, his goal celebrations have triggered controversy among Dortmund's official supporter group.

Nmecha, a devout Christian, celebrated one of his goals by kneeling and mimicking the removal of a crown, placing it on the pitch in front of him. The gesture is part of 'The King's Return' campaign, associated with 'Ballers in God', a network of Christian footballers founded in 2015.

Dortmund's supporter group opposes the network, citing a German broadcaster ARD investigation that accuses 'Ballers in God' of describing homosexuality as sin and abortion as part of Satan's plan.

In a statement, the supporters said: "We oppose religious networks that, under the appearance of faith, promote a worldview in which people are denigrated or excluded based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, lifestyle or personal decisions."

Nmecha faced similar criticism when joining Dortmund from Wolfsburg in 2023 for sharing homophobic and transphobic posts on Instagram. The club said it would speak with the player and reiterated its commitment to respect, diversity and equality.