For the first time ever, a professional football match in Germany has been abandoned because of a racist incident.
Osnabruck’s trip to Duisburg in the German third tier was called off on Sunday after a fan racially abused visiting player Aaron Opoku.
The match was stopped by referee Nicolas Winter in the 35th minute after a racist remark was heard from the stands.
Both sets of players left the pitch, with large sections of the crowd at the MSV-Arena chanting “Nazi’s out!” in solidarity with Opoku.
After a 15-minute period, the match was officially abandoned.
“The game is over after VfL Osnabruck is no longer able to compete,” Duisburg tweeted.
“We fully understand this. A bitter afternoon for football.”
Osnabruck’s account also tweeted: “The game has been stopped. Opoku was racially insulted. Incomprehensible. Aaron, we stand behind you!”
Opoku himself later commented on the incident, saying: “Not continuing the game was an important sign for everyone who has been discriminated against.”
