Football
Ousou’s teammate the target of racism? The Swedish international was allegedly assaulted by an Italian
An unnamed Italy player was allegedly racist in an U21 European Championship qualifying match. The opponent complained after the match about the opponent’s inappropriate behaviour.
An unnamed Italian player was allegedly racist in an U21 European Championship qualifying match. The opponent complained after the match about the opponent’s inappropriate behaviour.
The alleged racist insult was directed at the Swedish winger Anthony Elanga, a Manchester United footballer. However, none of the referees noticed anything similar during the match.
The racism was also complained about after the match by the visitors’ head coach Claes Eriksson, who expects a punishment for the offenders.
“We presented our version of what happened to the referees and the match delegate. Now we are waiting for feedback through their match reports. When we see them, we will decide how to proceed.”
The Swedish coach then added that he stands behind the player and will do everything he can to resolve the situation.
“Nobody should be subjected to racism, it’s unacceptable. We all stand behind Anthony and support him in this matter.”
In any case, the Italians reject the reference to the Manchester United talent’s skin colour, with their official statement saying:
“The FIGC categorically denies that an opponent has been the target of racist insults by a player of our national team. As far as we know, no such incident was recorded by the referee or UEFA delegate.”
Whatever the outcome of the incident, the Swedes can at least be satisfied with the result. Tim Prica scored a goal in the second half to tie the game 1-1. Aiham Ousou didn’t make the squad at all.
Source: The Swedish FA