Barcelona’s 4-1 victory over Espanyol was overshadowed by persistent racist chanting directed at Moroccan defender Omar El Hilali, sparking widespread condemnation and stadium warnings.
Barcelona tightened their grip on the La Liga title with a 4-1 derby win over Espanyol, but the match was stained by racism.
Sections of the Camp Nou crowd targeted Moroccan international Omar El Hilali with offensive slurs, particularly after an on-field altercation with Gavi.
Despite two public-address warnings from stadium officials threatening legal action, the abusive environment persisted throughout the second half of the contest.
Spain’s ongoing struggle with football-related racism was highlighted again as fans also taunted Espanyol’s players regarding potential relegation.
This incident follows a disturbing pattern for El Hilali, who previously reported being told, “You came in a small boat,” by an opponent.
While Barcelona moved nine points clear of Real Madrid, the focus remains on the systemic abuse currently overshadowing high-profile Spanish matches.