LAGOS, NIGERIA (VOICE OF NAIJA) An under-16 tournament match in Austria witnessed an early conclusion as Liverpool players left the field following racial abuse aimed at a fellow teammate.
This incident unfolded during Liverpool’s clash with Juventus at the Next Generation Trophy held in Salzburg.
When a teenager within the Liverpool squad became a target of racial abuse, they quickly informed the coaching staff about the situation.
In accordance with established procedures, the coaching staff promptly withdrew their players from the ongoing match.
After consultations with Juventus officials, a collective decision was made to terminate the game prematurely.
Juventus took accountability by identifying the individual responsible for the offensive comments. This player extended an apology to the affected teammate and subsequently faced suspension by their club for the remainder of the tournament.
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In their subsequent game against Ecuador’s Independiente del Valle, the Liverpool team exhibited solidarity by taking a knee alongside their opponents before kickoff.
A spokesperson from Liverpool officially confirmed the occurrence, stating, “We can confirm that a member of our under-16s team was racially abused by an opponent while playing in the Next Generation youth tournament in Austria.”
The spokesperson went on to elaborate that the prompt identification and removal of the responsible individual from the competition were facilitated through the swift intervention of multiple stakeholders, including Liverpool players, staff, tournament organizers, and opposition management.
Furthermore, supplementary disciplinary actions were put in place, including educational interventions.
Expressing appreciation for the swift response of all parties involved, particularly the player who adhered to established protocols by reporting the incident, the spokesperson emphasized the comprehensive support extended to the affected player by the club.
The spokesperson concluded the statement by reaffirming the club’s unwavering stance against any forms of racist abuse.