FIFPRO Fair Play Award Day 1: A birthday to remember
| Mexico are the first team to be awarded the Fair Play Award in Cardiff. Image: Mile44
Mexican star Jibran Alejandro Santillan Padilla had a birthday to remember as the Mexican side became the first FIFPRO Fair Play Award recipients at the 2019 Homeless World Cup in Cardiff.
The daily award, issued to teams who show outstanding sportsmanlike behaviour, was picked up by Mexico after Jibran stopped their opening day game to help the Swiss goalkeeper tie his shoelaces.
Speaking after picking up the award from South African’s youngest referee Fezile Hlophe, Jibran said: “For me, football is everything and I’m very grateful for this award and whole event.
“Yesterday’s action of kindness just came naturally from my heart and to be awarded for this is really nice.
“This is a lovely award, especially because it was just an intrinsic reaction.”
Words: David Brockett
Images: Mile 44