Sao Paulo and Fortaleza accused of racism

Sao Paulo U-20 team midfielder Matheus Ferreira accused Fortaleza player Rocco of committing a racial insult during the quarter-final match between the teams at the Presidente Vargas Stadium in Fortaleza.

The incident occurred in the 26th minute of the first half, and the match was paralyzed for about four minutes due to FIFA’s anti-racism regulations, initiated by referee Paulo Vitor de Lima Pereira. According to information from SporTV (Grupo Globo) reporter Marta Negreiros, a member of the Tricolor Paulista technical committee said that Leão said: “Shut up, you monkey.” To Jordonny player.

After this alleged violation, there was confusion among the players, with Sao Paulo’s players questioning Fortaleza’s Chilean player about his next words. “Who is the monkey?”

São Paulo commented on the incident in an official statement, vehemently denying any racist behavior.

On the field, Tricolor Paulista defeated Fortaleza 2-0 with goals from Pedro Ferreira and Gustavo Santana. The return match is scheduled for next Wednesday (19th) at 3:30pm CT in Sao Paulo (Brasilia time).

Full official note from São Paulo:

“São Paulo Futebol Club vehemently denies the racist act that occurred against Giordoní during this Wednesday’s Copa do Brasil U20 match against Fortaleza.

There is no place for racism in football or in any other society. The club will provide the player with all necessary support and will take appropriate measures in the face of this abhorrent incident.”