Antonio Rüdiger was the target of racist abuse during his Real Madrid team's 3:1 victory over Pachuca in a Club World Cup match in Charlotte, USA.

This was shared by the new head coach of the Royal Club, Xabi Alonso, who confirmed that a complaint had been filed after the incident at the end of the Group H match of the competition. Central defender Rüdiger exchanged words with the Mexican team's captain Gustavo Cabral in added time, but it was not clear whether the abuse came from a player or a person in the stands.

"This is what Rüdiger told us and we believe him. It is important that we have zero tolerance in such situations. FIFA is currently conducting an investigation. That is all I can say on the subject", Alonso said at a press conference after the final whistle.

FIFA has not commented on the case, but the main referee of yesterday's match, Ramon Abatti, had his arms crossed in front of his chest, which is a signal to activate the anti-racism protocol.

Real is the leader of its group with four points. The second-placed RB Salzburg has the same asset, having drawn 0:0 with Al Hilal. Real and the Austrians face each other on Friday morning at 04:00 Bulgarian time. | BGNES