Supporters cautioned over anti-Muslim chants during Spain-Egypt game
BARCELONA — Supporters of Spain were given multiple warnings to cease racist chants during Tuesday’s friendly match against Egypt after a series of anti-Muslim remarks were heard in the first half.
A notice was shown on the screen at halftime — which was also announced by the stadium’s speaker at Espanyol’s RCDE Stadium in Barcelona — instructing fans to refrain from xenophobic comments and songs.
This notice was reiterated early in the second half, with some segments of the audience responding with whistles to the appeal.
Prior to the match, Egypt’s national anthem was met with loud whistles, followed by chants of “MusulmΓ‘n el que no bote’ — which can be interpreted as “If you’re not jumping, you’re a Muslim” — and further whistling when certain Egyptian players knelt and kissed the ground at halftime.
The North African nation is predominantly Muslim, with Islam recognized as the official state religion.
One of Spain’s starting players that evening, Lamine Yamal, is a Muslim.
The Barcelona forward’s father hails from Morocco and he practices the faith, having participated in Ramadan just last month.
Spain’s match against Egypt served as a preparatory game for this summer’s World Cup, with both teams having qualified for the tournament taking place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
La Roja will compete against Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay in Group H, while Egypt is set to face Belgium, New Zealand, and Iran in Group G.
