Chelsea’s Under-19 team faces racist abuse during UEFA Youth League match
Chelsea’s Under-19 team encountered alleged racist abuse during their UEFA Youth League encounter with Qarabag in Azerbaijan’s capital on Wednesday, leading to a temporary halt in proceedings, reports BritPanorama.
The disturbing incident unfolded when 17-year-old striker Sol Gordon found the net in the 57th minute at Baku’s Azersun Stadium. As the young Blues celebrated their opening goal near a section of home supporters, witnesses reported observing and hearing monkey gestures directed at the players.
The sparsely attended fixture was interrupted for several minutes while Ukrainian referee Dmytro Kubriak addressed the situation. Match officials intervened after Chelsea’s players raised complaints about the alleged abuse, with head coach Calum McFarlane and his staff discussing the circumstances with the referee.
There appeared to be uncertainty about whether the match would continue, with Chelsea’s squad visibly distressed by the incident. The Blues ultimately decided to resume play after the brief interruption. Winger Jesse Derry received a booking for what was described as provocative celebrations in front of the home supporters.
Chelsea released a comprehensive statement addressing the incident, describing it as “completely unacceptable.” The club emphasised that “racism and all forms of discriminatory behaviour are completely unacceptable and have no place in football or indeed in society.” They confirmed that the matter was promptly reported to UEFA’s match delegate and the host club, expecting a thorough investigation through UEFA’s disciplinary procedures.
The statement praised their players and staff for their professional response, commending them for promptly alerting the referee and following UEFA protocols appropriately. Following the stoppage, the match continued with Chelsea dominating proceedings to secure an emphatic 5-0 triumph. Jesse Derry netted twice while substitutes Shim Mheuka and Frankie Runham also found the target to complete the rout.
Qarabag swiftly responded with an apology, expressing surprise at the incident and pledging a thorough investigation. A club spokesperson stated it “doesn’t represent the values of our club.” UEFA’s disciplinary body will examine the referee’s report before determining any potential sanctions, while Chelsea maintains its perfect record in the Youth League, sitting at the summit of the table with four wins from their opening four fixtures.
Such incidents serve as a stark reminder that football remains a stage where societal issues play out, highlighting the ongoing battles against racism in the sport.
