CNN
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Racist chants by a group of Atlético Madrid fans towards Real Madrid player Vinícius Jr were caught on camera ahead of Sunday’s Madrid derby.
In a video posted to Twitter by Spanish radio station COPE, a sizeable group of Atlético supporters can be heard chanting outside the Atletico Metropolitano stadium: “You’re a monkey, Vinícius, you’re a monkey.”
It came just a day after Vinícius condemned what he described as racist criticism he received for his dancing goal celebration.
During an appearance on Spanish television on Friday, Pedro Bravo – a top agent and president of the Association of Spanish Agents – compared the Brazilian’s dancing celebrations after his goal to the behavior of a monkey, arguing the forward doesn’t respect his opponents and “should stop playing.” the monkey.”
Bravo has been accused by many on social media of using racist language, and has done so has since apologized on Twitter.
“I want to clarify that the phrase ‘playing the monkey’, which I misused to describe Vinicius’ goal celebration dance, was used metaphorically (‘playing the fool’),” Bravo wrote. “As I didn’t mean to offend anyone, I sincerely apologize, I’m sorry.”
READ: Real Madrid’s Vinícius Jr condemns ‘racist’ criticism of dancing goal celebrations
Atlético did not immediately respond to CNN’s request for comment on the chanting outside the stadium, however wrote on Twitter before the game: “Support Atleti with passion and respect for the rival!”
Real opened the scoring with a sensational Rodrygo half-volley after a superb Aurélien Tchouaméni pass, with Vinícius dancing to celebrate his goal with Rodrygo.
In a heated atmosphere, several Atlético supporters could be seen making gestures towards the Brazilian couple during their celebration.
Los Blancos doubled their lead when Vinícius’ shot on target ricocheted off the post into Federico Valverde’s barrel, who shot at a tight angle past a helpless Jan Oblak.
Mario Hermoso scored late but it proved too little, too late, as Real ended the jittery affair to extend their perfect start to the season with six wins from six in La Liga.
After the match, Vinícius tweeted a photo of Rodrygo and himself dancing with the caption: “Dance wherever you want.”