After guiding his team to a 1-1 draw against Morocco in the AFCON on Sunday, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) captain Chancel Mbemba faced a wave of racist abuse on social media.
Users targeted Mbemba’s Instagram account, responding to his posts with monkey or gorilla emojis and posting racist comments.
Following the match, Mbemba engaged in a heated exchange with Moroccan coach Walid Regragui, sparking a brawl between players and officials from both teams, extending from the field into the players’ tunnel.
In a post-match incident, Regragui sought out Mbemba, who was on his knees. Despite Mbemba’s attempt at a friendly gesture, Regragui continued speaking, prompting the player to remove his hand and signal towards the video referee before both teams intervened.
Mbemba later indicated to journalists in San Pedro that Regragui had insulted him. “I keep silent, it’s better. Everyone knows me, I respect everyone… but I never thought I would hear these words from the coach’s mouth” expressed Mbemba.
Regragui offered no immediate reaction to the situation.
