Nico Williams Scores Amidst Alleged Racial Abuse in Atletico Madrid Defeat
Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams found the net in a 3-1 La Liga loss against Atletico Madrid, amidst accusations of racial abuse from a section of home fans.
The Spain winger halted the match midway through the first half at Estadio Civitas Metropolitano, requesting referee Juan Martinez to intervene due to racist chants directed at him.
Following the interruption, an announcement was made to the crowd, and Atletico players Antoine Griezmann and Jose Maria Gimenez were seen urging their fans to cease the offensive behavior before play resumed.
“I have gone to take a corner and I have heard monkey sounds,” 21-year-old Williams shared with DAZN, expressing his disappointment. “There are stupid people everywhere, but nothing happens. We have to keep working. I hope this changes little by little because in the end we are fighting internally and externally against this.”
Despite facing boos from some fans throughout the match, Williams managed to equalize just before half-time, leading to intensified jeers.
Discussing his goal celebration, he added, “It comes with a bit of anger. It is not normal that they still insult you because of your skin tone.”
Williams’ brother and teammate Inaki Williams emphasized that the focus should be on condemning the perpetrators of the insults rather than directing hostility towards the victim.
Atletico Madrid addressed the issue on social media, stating their opposition to racism or hatred. Similarly, La Liga condemned the racist acts and pledged to continue efforts in eradicating such behavior from the sport.
Despite Williams’ goal, Athletic Bilbao succumbed to defeat with goals from Angel Correa and an own goal from their goalkeeper Unai Simon.
Atletico Madrid’s victory leaves them in a favorable position for Champions League qualification next season, sitting six points clear of Athletic with five games remaining.
This incident follows a similar complaint filed by Real Madrid last month against Atletico fans for racist chanting directed at Brazilian forward Vinicius Jr.
