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US footballer targeted by racist attacks after defeat at Copa América

Theo

ATLANTA – Several players on the U.S. national soccer team were subjected to racist comments on social media following their 2-1 loss to Panama at the Copa América on Thursday, the U.S. Soccer Association said.

“US Soccer is aware of and deeply disturbed by the racist comments made online against several of our players following today’s match,” the USSF said. “There is absolutely no place for such hateful and discriminatory behavior in soccer. These actions are not only unacceptable, but they violate the values ​​of respect and inclusivity that we uphold as an organization.”

The USSF said it had informed the South American football association CONMEBOL, which is organizing the 16-nation tournament, and would offer psychological help to “all our players and staff who request it.”

Tim Weah, one of six black players who started for the U.S. team at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, received a red card in the 18th minute for punching an opponent in the back of the head. The U.S. team (1-1-0) then took the lead but conceded goals in both halves, including one in the 83rd minute.

Weah is ineligible to play in Monday’s Group C final against Uruguay in Kansas City, Missouri.

CONMEBOL issued a statement late Thursday saying: “Defending the values ​​of a just and inclusive society has been and will continue to be CONMEBOL’s main policy. … We condemn in every way intolerant attitudes hidden behind accounts on social platforms.”

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