Asunción, Paraguay – A heated racism controversy has engulfed a football match in Paraguay, sparking widespread condemnation and calls for action. The Paraguayan Afro-descendant Community (RPA) has issued a strong statement denouncing racist acts that occurred during a Copa Libertadores U-20 match on March 6th, demanding a thorough investigation and punishment for those responsible.

During the match between Cerro Porteño and Brazil's Palmeiras, some Cerro Porteño fans were reported to have directed "monkey" chants at Palmeiras' Afro-descendant players. Furthermore, a man outside the stadium was seen making monkey gestures towards the players. Despite protests from the Brazilian players to the referee, no action was taken.

The incident quickly spread on social media and through media outlets, igniting public outrage. The RPA, in its statement, asserted that "football should be a space for inclusion, unity, and respect, and not a stage for racism and intolerance." They emphasized the need to prevent such incidents from recurring.

The RPA has called on authorities to conduct a rigorous investigation and hold those responsible accountable. They have also demanded the implementation of anti-racism education and awareness campaigns targeting football clubs, fans, players, referees, the media, and security personnel. Additionally, they have urged for stronger sanctions and legal penalties for racist acts, and the development and implementation of an anti-racism education strategy involving Afro-descendant organizations, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Culture.

This incident has served to highlight the persistent issue of racism in Paraguayan football and society. The RPA emphasized that "football has the power to unite people across all differences" and that it "must be a key tool for education and awareness."

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