Categories: World Soccer

Matuidi fury at racist abuse in Cagliari Serie A game

“Today I experienced racism during the match. Weak people try to intimidate with hate, I am not a hater and can only be sorry for those who set bad examples,” Matuidi said in a statement to AFP.

“Football is a way to spread equality, passion and inspiration and this is what I am here for. Peace,” the 30-year-old added.

The incident took place just before half-time as the French international engaged in a tackle with a Cagliari defender. Television footage showed an angry Matuidi looking towards the stands in the Sardegna Arena.

Advertisement

After unsuccessfully approaching the referee to seek his intervention a furious Matuidi was calmed down and led away by his Juventus teammates Paulo Dybala and Mehdi Benatia.

Juventus went on to win the game 1-0, when Italian winger Fernando Bernardeschi scored after 74 minutes.

The former Paris Saint-Germain player suffered similar racist chants during a match in Verona last month for which the club was fined 20,000 euros ($24,000) by the Italian league.

Advertisement

Last season Ghanaian Sulley Muntari — who then played for Pescara — walked off the pitch in Cagliari after being targeted by racist abuse.

For more news your way

Download our app and read this and other great stories on the move. Available for Android and iOS.

Published by
By Agence France Presse