Atletico Madrid secured a big three points in the race for Champions League qualification on Saturday, as they defeated closest challengers Athletic Club 3-1 at the Civitas Metropolitano. However, the match will be remembered for a unsavoury incident involving Nico Williams, who was subjected to racist abuse by a section of home supporters.
The incident took place in the first half, and caused a delay as the relevant officials worked to get on top of the situation. Williams responded in the best way, as he scored sooner after, and celebrated in front of the section where the abuse came from.
The game had to be stopped for 2 minutes due to racist insults from Atleti ‘fans’ directed towards Nico Williams.
Absolutely disgusting. Racism has no place in football. 🤮
— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) April 27, 2024
Speaking after the match, Williams recounted the incident, as per Marca.
“I went to take the corner and I heard monkey sounds. There was a few of them. These dumb people are everywhere. I hope that this will change little by little.
“I celebrated like that with anger. It’s not normal to be insulted because of your skin colour.”
Racism has been a serious problem in Spanish football for years. All clubs, including Atletico Madrid, need to work to take decisive action, so that these incidents stop happening.
