Jun 22, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Real Madrid C.F. defender Antonio Ruediger (22) and head coach Xabi Alonso react after the game during a group stage match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina (Reuters) -Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso said he believed Antonio Ruediger when the player told him he was a victim of racist abuse during their 3-1 win against Mexican side Pachuca at the Club World Cup on Sunday.
Referee Ramon Abatti crossed his forearms in front of his chest, which signals the activation of the anti-racism protocol, five minutes into stoppage time after a brief scuffle erupted following a foul on Germany international Ruediger.
