Brazil vs Tunisia: The Parco dei Principi hosted a friendly fixture between Brazil and Tunisia. The Seleçao registered a huge 5-1 win with ease. However, the event that stole headlines in the Brazil vs Tunisia fixture was yet another disappointing episode of racism.
The event unfolded when Richarlison scored the second goal for Brazil in the 19th minute. During his celebration a banana was thrown at the striker which fell at his feet. Following this, FIFA opened an investigation against the offender.
FIFA stated, “First off, Fifa has a very clear policy of zero tolerance for such behaviour in sport and vehemently rejects any form of racism and violence. The incident from the match in Paris yesterday will be looked into by FIFA.”
Richarlson said, “When I first spoke to Firmino, I told him that I believed God had prevented me from seeing the scenario since there is no way I could have known what to do in the heat of the moment. I hope this supporter is located and held accountable. It is challenging, as seen by what just occurred to Vinicius (who was the target of racist chanting during the Madrid derby, ed) and what is currently occurring, always within a stadium. The expectation is that the authorities will track down the fan and punish him. I’m hoping that this would serve as a warning to others not to imitate these actions.”
The Brazilian Football Confederation tweeted, “Richarlison was hit with a banana after Brazil’s second goal. CBF reaffirms its opposition to discrimination and fiercely denounces yet another instance of racism in sport.”
