01.04.2026 16:38
During the Spain - Egypt match, the chant "He who does not jump is a Muslim" from the stands drew significant backlash, reigniting discussions about racism and hate speech in the football world. The Catalonia autonomous region police, Mossos d'Esquadra, launched an investigation due to the Islamophobic and xenophobic chants that occurred during the match.
The racist chants that occurred during the friendly match between Spain and Egypt, played during the break given to the leagues for the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, drew great reactions in the football world. The incident in the heart of Europe resonated widely in the public.
DISGRACEFUL CHANT DREW REACTION
In the match played at Espanyol's RCDE Stadium, which ended in a 0-0 draw, the chants of some Spanish fans saying "Muslim who doesn't jump" caused a significant backlash. It was noted that the same group of fans had previously chanted "Vinicius beach ball" regarding Vinicius Junior, who had also been subjected to racism.
ANNOUNCEMENTS WERE MADE IN THE STADIUM
Following the incidents, announcements were made in the stadium both during the match and at halftime. Warnings were issued to put an end to the racist rhetoric, while tense moments were experienced throughout the match.
STRONG REACTION FROM THE HEAD COACH
In statements made after the match, Spain's head coach Luis de la Fuente expressed strong reactions to the events. The experienced coach stated, "I find all forms of xenophobia and racism disgusting. This is unacceptable. These individuals do not represent football."
ANTHEM WHISTLED, POLITICAL SLOGANS CHANTED
In addition to the scandalous chants, it was learned that the Egyptian national anthem was whistled by a group of fans before the match. It was also reported that some fans shouted insulting slogans directed at Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.
YAMAL'S DETAIL CAUGHT ATTENTION
It drew attention that Spain's young star Lamine Yamal, who was on the field during the match, is also a Muslim. El Pais newspaper commented on the situation, stating, "One of the players who received the most applause was the Muslim Yamal," describing the situation as a "paradox."
INVESTIGATION INITIATED
The Catalonia autonomous police, Mossos d'Esquadra, initiated an investigation due to the Islamophobic and xenophobic chants that occurred during the match. El Mundo newspaper described the events as "unbearable."