Cameroon supporters have praised the Russian hosts of the Confederations Cup and allayed early pre-tournament fears of racism. Spartak Moscow’s stadium, the Otkrytiye Arena, was the host ground for Cameron’s opening group game against Chile, where there have been several alleged incidents of racist abuse directed towards players over the last two years.
Hulk and Emmanuel Frimpong both reacted to alleged discriminatory language during Russian league games. FIFA have instructed referees to halt and even abandon Confederations Cup games if there’s evidence of discriminatory behaviour. One Cameroon fan told Sky Sports News HQ before the match: “The reception is very good and there have been no problems. I think Russian people are very good. Everything is good.” Another supporter added: “You see the organisation, it is a very nice organisation.”
Referees have been instructed to hold a zero-tolerance policy if there is evidence of discriminatory behavior “Trouble can happen during the night if people drink,” said French radio journalist Aly Keita. “But not really for the moment. You don’t hear something very sad, so that’s why I can say only good things at the moment about Russia and the competition.”
Chile fans also praised their reception in Russia ahead of facing Cameroon. “So far, so good,” said one supporter outside the stadium. “I have seen no issues of racism. It’s been very enjoyable and I’ve been made to feel welcome.”
FIFA and the organising committee have said they are happy with the number of Confederations Cup tickets sold so far and believe demand will pick up after attendances reached more than 75 per cent of the host stadiums’ capacities.
Source: Skynews