Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has revealed that FIFA is investigating an allegation of racist abuse directed at Antonio Rudiger during the Spanish club’s 3 to 1 Club World Cup victory over Mexican side Pachuca on Sunday.
The alleged incident occurred late in the match held in Charlotte where Rudiger was involved in a clash with Pachuca captain Gustavo Cabral during stoppage time. It remains unclear whether the abuse came from a player or a member of the crowd.
“That’s what Rudiger said and we believe him” Alonso stated during his post match press conference. “It is important to have zero tolerance in these kinds of situations. FIFA now is investigating. That’s all I can say.”
While FIFA the tournament organiser and world football’s governing body has yet to release an official statement match referee Ramon Abatti was seen crossing his arms in front of his chest a signal that activates the anti racism protocol.
Real Madrid Battle Through Adversity to Secure Victory
Despite early adversity Real Madrid secured their first win of the tournament. They were reduced to 10 men in the 7th minute after Raul Asencio was sent off for bringing down Salomon Rondon. The setback came with star forward Kylian Mbappe still sidelined due to illness.
After weathering pressure from the Mexican side Jude Bellingham opened the scoring in the 35th minute. Arda Guler doubled the advantage before Federico Valverde added a third with a well struck volley in the second half. Pachuca grabbed a late consolation through a deflected effort from Elias Montiel.
The win places Real Madrid level on four points with Red Bull Salzburg at the top of Group H following Salzburg’s goalless draw with Al Hilal in Washington D C. With Al Hilal just two points behind the group remains wide open.
Real Madrid will face Salzburg in their final group stage match on Thursday night 2 a m Friday UK time with a spot in the knockout rounds at stake.
