Last Updated:
Kerala Blasters’ comeback win over Bengaluru FC was overshadowed by alleged racist abuse of Fallou Ndiaye.
Kerala Blasters’ Ndiaye Fallou (X/KBFC)
We’ve always said there’s no room for racism in the beautiful game. Well, Indian football didn’t quite get the memo last night.
The Indian Super League (ISL) was rocked by controversy after Kerala Blasters defender Ndiaye Fallou was allegedly subjected to racist abuse during their clash against Bengaluru FC on Sunday.
A Win Overshadowed
On the pitch, the Blasters staged a spirited second-half comeback to beat Bengaluru 2-1, finally snapping a miserable seven-game winless run to start the season.
After six defeats and a draw, this was supposed to be the turning point. Instead, it turned into a PR nightmare.
Tempers flared during the game, as they usually do in this fixture, but what followed off the pitch was far more concerning.
Crossing The Line
During the match, Ndiaye, who hails from Senegal, was reportedly targeted with racial slurs from the stands at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium.
A video that quickly went viral on social media showed a fan shouting “Go to Zoo” at the Kerala Blasters player. The clip sparked immediate outrage, with fans calling for strict action.
Clubs Respond
Kerala Blasters didn’t hold back in their response.
“The Club has taken note of an appalling incident which has occurred during our last game, where one of our players was subjected to blatant racist chants,” the club said in an official statement.
“The Club strongly condemns this act and has formally raised this matter with the relevant ISL and AIFF authorities. We will also pursue appropriate action to protect the integrity of our player.
“There is no place for racism in our game.”
Bengaluru FC echoed those sentiments.
“We condemn this behaviour in the strongest way possible. Racism is unacceptable, has no place in sport, and runs completely counter to the values the club stands for,” the club said, adding that efforts are underway to identify the individual responsible.
April 13, 2026, 8:28 PM IST
Read More
Source link
[ad_3]
