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Real Madrid’s 3-1 triumph over Mexican side Pachuca at the Club World Cup has been overshadowed by allegations of racial abuse directed at defender Antonio Rüdiger.
The incident unfolded during stoppage time on Sunday in Charlotte, North Carolina, as tensions flared following a late challenge on Rüdiger. Referee Ramon Abatti Abel responded by crossing his forearms in front of his chest — the official signal to activate FIFA’s anti-racism protocol — after the German international claimed he was targeted with a racial slur.
Although the origin of the alleged abuse has not been conclusively identified — whether from an opponent or the crowd — Rüdiger pointed to a confrontation with Pachuca defender Gustavo Cabral in the final moments of the match. Cabral has since denied any racial intent behind his words.
“There was nothing racist. I called him ‘chickens---’ as we say in Argentina, that's it,” Cabral told reporters in Spanish after the match. Stadium sources, however, suggest otherwise, claiming Cabral allegedly used a racial slur in Spanish.
Asked about the situation in his post-match press conference, Madrid manager Xabi Alonso offered unequivocal support for his player. “That’s what Rüdiger said, and we believe him. It is important to have zero tolerance in these kinds of situations. FIFA now is investigating. That’s all I can say.”
The governing body has yet to issue an official statement, saying it awaits the referee's match report before providing further clarification.
Rüdiger, 32, has faced racial abuse throughout his career, including previous incidents during his spells at Chelsea, Roma, and Real Madrid. This latest episode could place further scrutiny on FIFA, especially after criticism that its ‘No to Racism’ campaign was reportedly absent from the Club World Cup despite initial plans to promote it.
With an investigation now underway, attention will turn to FIFA’s handling of the matter — and whether decisive action follows Rüdiger’s claim.
Featured Image Credit: Instagram / @toniruediger
