Mario Balotelli
MARIO BALOTELLI was praised today by anti-racism campaigners for highlighting an offensive banner displayed by fans at his comeback game for Italy.
Anti-discrimination group Football Against Racism in Europe (Fare) wrote on Twitter: “Well done to Mario Balotelli, standing up to racism in Italian football once again.”
The slogan: “My captain is of Italian blood” in Italian was draped on a pitch-side wall during Italy’s 2-1 win over Saudi Arabia yesterday in Switzerland.
Forward’s rise as the tournament’s leading scorer reflects a journey shaped by heritage and belief as Morocco reach the final, writes JAMES NALTON
Anti-discrimination charity says players may think twice about taking penalties in future
Joao Pedro’s emotional goals against Fluminense captured the magic of an international club competition. But even as fans bring colour and passion, the Club World Cup’s deeper issues loom large, writes JAMES NALTON
