CONCACAF has initiated an investigation into an alleged derogatory remark made by Los Angeles FC defender Sergi Palencia towards Colorado Rapids’ Chidozie Awaziem during their CONCACAF Champions Cup game on Tuesday.
Gameplay was halted late in the second half as Awaziem was seen conversing with referee Pierre-Luc Lauzière. Awaziem, match officials, team captains, and coaches convened to address the issue. Following the resumption of play, Awaziem engaged in a discussion with Palencia after the final whistle.
Rapids head coach Chris Armas revealed that Awaziem reported being subjected to a derogatory term by Palencia.
“There was an incident that happened on the field,” Armas said. “Our player, Chidoze Awaziem, was pretty clear and upset at a derogatory term that [Palencia] said. [Awaziem] was clear about what was said. Our club, myself, we’re fully behind our player to support him with an investigation into what exactly what went down. He was visibly upset.”
LAFC’s head coach Steve Cherundolo confirmed that Awaziem heard a word that troubled him.
“[Awaziem] thought that it was directed towards him,” Cherundolo said. “I don’t know what directly what was said. I was on the sideline. I’m sure the referees will write a report and then we’ll figure it out from there. If players hear something and they can’t play, we want to support the players. We’ll let the referees and CONCACAF figure that out.”
CONCACAF, the governing body for North and Central American soccer, announced on Wednesday that they have launched an investigation into the matter.
“The investigation will involve a thorough review of the match officials’ reports, available match footage, and the respective positions of both clubs.”
The Colorado Rapids issued a statement endorsing CONCACAF’s investigation.
“The Colorado Rapids fully support Concacaf’s ongoing investigation into the reported use of abusive language by an LAFC player during last night’s match at BMO Stadium.
“As a club, we do not tolerate any form of abuse, and we stand with our players following these very serious allegations. This language has no place in our game.”
“LAFC is aware of the reported incident during last night’s Concacaf Champions Cup match and is cooperating fully with the ongoing CONCACAF investigation,” read a statement from LAFC. “LAFC is a club for all and stands against hate in any form. We have spoken with our player about the incident and will continue to respect the investigative process.”
LAFC emerged victorious in the match with a 1-0 scoreline to secure a 2-2 draw in the series and advance to the Round of 16 based on the away goal rule.
LAFC’s next challenge will be against the Columbus Crew in the tournament, with the first leg scheduled for March 4 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles.