Concacaf investigates alleged hate speech towards Nigeria star in Rapids’ defeat to LAFC

Nigerian defender Chidozie Awaziem has claimed he was subjected to abusive language during Colorado Rapids’ CONCACAF Champions Cup second-leg clash against Los Angeles FC on Wednesday, Footynaija.com reports.

The match at BMO Stadium ended in a 1-0 defeat for the Rapids, with LAFC progressing to the next round on away goals after a 2-2 aggregate scoreline. However, the result was overshadowed by the alleged incident involving Awaziem in the latter stages of the game.

The 28-year-old defender took to social media to express his disappointment, revealing he immediately reported the abuse to match officials.

“During last night’s Concacaf Champions Cup match, I believe I was subjected to abusive language on the field — something I have never experienced from another player before. I immediately reported what I heard to my teammates and the Concacaf match officials,” Awaziem wrote.

The game was briefly halted in the 85th minute as referee Pierre-Luc Lauziere consulted both benches and captains before play resumed.

Awaziem, who joined the Rapids in January after a spell at FC Cincinnati, called on football’s governing bodies to uphold their anti-discrimination stance.

“Concacaf has been clear with its ‘What’s Wrong is Wrong’ campaign that discrimination has no place in our sport. As players, we need to know that these standards are upheld and that we’re protected on the field,” he added.

“My hope is that the governing bodies of the sport continue to hold players and fans accountable for discriminatory language in order to create an environment that protects and respects players of all races and cultural backgrounds.”

Colorado Rapids head coach Chris Armas confirmed after the match that Awaziem had reported hearing a “derogatory term” and stressed that the club is fully behind its player.

“It was an incident that happened on the field. Our player, Chidozie Awaziem, was pretty clear and upset at a derogatory term… Our club, myself, are fully behind our players,” Armas said.

CONCACAF has since launched an investigation into the incident, promising a full review of match reports, available footage, and both clubs’ positions.

LAFC defender Sergi Palencia has been named in reports as the alleged player involved, though the club has released a statement declaring its stance against discrimination.

“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,” the Rapids’ statement read.

Awaziem expressed gratitude to his club and teammates for their support during the ongoing probe.

“I appreciate the support of my club, my teammates, and everyone involved as this matter is investigated further. My focus remains on representing my club, my family, and standing against all forms of discrimination in our sport.”