The Egyptian Football Association has claimed its players and staff were victims of racist abuse during Tuesday’s controversial World Cup play-off defeat to Senegal.
Home fans aimed laser pens at the Pharaohs’ penalty takers and goalkeeper during the shootout that sent Senegal to Qatar, which were clearly visible on TV footage before Sadio Mane netted the winning spot-kick.
Ahead of the match, missiles were allegedly hurled at the team bus, which was left with cracked windows and minor injuries for one members as shown by pictures posted on social media by the Egyptian FA.
It was also claimed that players, including Mohamed Salah, were “intimidated” inside Dakar’s Diamniadio Olympic Stadium.
“The Egypt national team have been exposed to racism with offensive signs in the stands against the Egyptian players in general, and Mohamed Salah in particular,” a statement read.
“The crowd also intimidated the players by throwing bottles and rocks on them during the warm-up. The Egyptian buses have also been exposed to assaults that led to broken windows and injuries.”
Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly hit the crossbar to open the shootout, following a 1-0 win for the hosts over 120 minutes that levelled the play-off tie on aggregate.
Liverpool star Salah then blazed over as laser pens darted across his face, just as they did for Egypt goalkeeper Mohammed El Shenawy, who then saved Saliou Ciss’ effort.
Ahmed Sayed and Mostafa Mohamed continued Egypt’s woe from 12 yards, before Mane slammed home the winner just as he did in the Africa Cup of Nations final between the teams in January.
