Spain forward Lamine Yamal has condemned offensive chants heard during his side’s goalless friendly draw against Egypt, describing the incident as “disrespectful and intolerable”.
The match, played at the RCDE Stadium on 31 March, was overshadowed by reports of anti-Muslim chants from sections of the crowd, prompting an investigation by Spanish authorities.
According to the player, some supporters directed chants mocking Islam during the game. While the slogans were not aimed at him personally, Yamal, who is a practising Muslim, said the behaviour was unacceptable and went against the values of football.
“I know it was directed at the opposing team and not at me personally, but as a Muslim, I consider it an inappropriate and unacceptable act,” he wrote on social media.
He added: “I understand that not all fans are like this, but to those who chant these slogans: using religion as a means of mockery in the stadium shows ignorance and racism.
“Football is for enjoyment and encouragement, not for insulting people because of their identity or beliefs. Nevertheless, I thank everyone who came to support us, and I look forward to seeing you at the World Cup.”
Spanish police have since launched an investigation into what has been described as “Islamophobic and xenophobic” chanting during the first half of the match.
In response, a warning message was displayed inside the stadium at half-time, urging fans to refrain from discriminatory behaviour.
The message was repeated early in the second half, although it reportedly drew whistles from parts of the crowd.
The fixture, which ended 0-0, had originally been scheduled to take place in Qatar but was moved to Spain due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Despite the controversy, both teams created a competitive atmosphere on the pitch, though neither side managed to find a breakthrough.
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente made significant changes to his line-up, retaining only Yamal from the side that defeated Serbia 3-0 in a previous friendly.
Egypt, meanwhile, were without key forward Mohamed Salah due to injury.
The incident has reignited discussions around racism and discrimination in football, particularly as teams prepare for the upcoming World Cup.
Yamal’s response has been widely viewed as a strong statement against intolerance, reinforcing calls for greater respect across the global game.
As football continues to bring together diverse cultures and communities, the events in Barcelona serve as a reminder of the challenges that remain in ensuring stadiums are inclusive spaces for all.
