AS Monaco lend support to USMNT forward Folarin Balogun following racist abuse | OneFootball

Whilst on international duty with the USMNT, Folarin Balogun (22) has been the victim of online racial abuse, which has been condemned by the American football federation, as well as by his club, AS Monaco.

Down to 10 men, Balogun opened the scoring for the USMNT against Panama, however, his side ultimately lost the encounter (2-1), registering their first defeat in the group stages of the ongoing Copa America tournament. In the wake of that defeat, Balogun took to social media and shared screenshots of racist and abusive messages that he had received on Instagram.

“US Soccer stands firmly against racism in all forms and will continue to support our players,” read a statement from U.S. Soccer in the wake of the racist abuse. His club then issued a statement of their own later on Friday morning.

“AS Monaco expresses full support for its player Folarin Balogun who has been the target of racist and insulting comments online after the Copa America game between the United States and Panama,” began the statement.

“The club strongly condemns all acts of racism and discrimination. These behaviours are in total contradiction with the values of the club and the sporting spirit we defend,” added the Principality club.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle