The Scottish Football Association have asked for an apology from their Brazilian counterparts over allegations of racism from Scottish fans.
Brazilian starlet Neymar, who scored both goals in his country’s 2-0 friendly win over the Scots at London’s Emirates Stadium on Sunday, claimed he was racially abused by Scottish supporters during the match.
Neymar was jeered repeatedly by Scotland fans and a banana was thrown onto the playing arena.
But earlier this week it was revealed that the banana was in fact thrown by a teenage German tourist sitting with Brazilian supporters.
With no Scottish supporters found to have been involved in the incident, SFA chief executive Stewart Regan has written to the Brazilian Football Federation to request an apology after the character of Scottish football fans had been called into question.
“It is very disappointing that this episode threatened to overshadow an entertaining match, played amidst a real carnival atmosphere created by supporters of both teams,” Regan said.
“Scotland and Brazil have played many times over the years, each time in a colourful and friendly environment, and we feel that it’s necessary to draw a line under Sunday’s events.”
“Scotland’s supporters were genuinely upset and annoyed that the unfounded allegations levelled against them threatened to sully their reputation as fair, good-humoured and respectful spectators.”
“As the matter has been resolved, and Scotland supporters cleared of any involvement, we felt it was only right that we acted on behalf of our supporters to request an apology either from the player involved, or the Brazilian FA.”
Thu 31 March, 2011
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