By Mustafa Makumba

Every four years, a major sporting event captures the world’s attention. Streets become quieter during matches, conversations revolve around results, and millions of people adjust their schedules to follow their favourite teams. The FIFA World Cup is one of those rare events that can unite strangers across continents through a shared passion.

There is nothing unusual about that. Human beings are naturally drawn to competition, achievement and the excitement of uncertainty. Sport offers moments of joy, heartbreak and inspiration.

Yet major events also raise an important question: when does healthy enjoyment become an unhealthy distraction?

Many people have experienced it. A match that was supposed to occupy ninety minutes turns into hours of pre-match discussion, post-match analysis and endless scrolling through highlights and commentary. Tasks are postponed, sleep is sacrificed and responsibilities are pushed aside. The issue is no longer football itself but the place it occupies in a person’s life.

Modern life offers countless distractions. Sport is only one of them. Social media, entertainment platforms and the constant flow of information compete for attention every day. The real challenge is maintaining a sense of balance.

The Qur’an repeatedly calls people to reflect on how they spend their time and what they place at the centre of their lives. It warns against becoming so absorbed in worldly pursuits that more important responsibilities are forgotten. “By time, indeed mankind is at loss, except those who believe, do righteous deeds, encourage one another to truth, and encourage one another to patience” (Qur’an 103:1-3).

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also reminded people of the value of time when he said: “There are two blessings which many people waste: health and free time” (Bukhari).

These teachings are not directed only at one particular activity. They offer a broader principle: enjoyment has its place, but it should not come at the expense of what truly matters. Family, worship, education, work, community and personal growth all deserve attention too.

The World Cup will eventually end. The trophies will be lifted, the celebrations will fade and attention will move elsewhere. What remains is the question each person must answer for themselves: did the things that entertained me also distract me from the things that mattered most?