Antonio Rudiger clarifies situation following report of racist abuse in aftermath of Champions League match

In the aftermath of Real Madrid’s victory over Braga on Tuesday evening, a brawl took place involving Antonio Rudiger, who had to be separated from multiple Braga players and was dually ushered off the pitch by some of his teammates.

🏟️ Varios jugadores del Real Madrid sacan a Rüdiger del campo tras enzarzarse con un futbolista del Braga.

🎥 @JorgeCPicon pic.twitter.com/rhx46K4Bpc

— Relevo (@relevo) October 24, 2023

Rüdiger had to be removed from the pitch by his teammates after a brawl. pic.twitter.com/KdhcL6BqN9

— Guillermo Rai (@GuillermoRai_) October 24, 2023

Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti even got involved, although when he spoke to the media post-match, he admitted to not knowing what had started the on-field melee. However, it appears that Cadena SER know why, as they revealed (via Diario AS) that Rudiger said he was racially abused by a Braga coach.

However, Rudiger himself has stated that this was not the case, taking to X to give an update on the situation.

It’s all good again guys – I am relaxed 🤞🏾 He definitely did not insult me racially, there was just a little dispute after our ways have crossed each other after the final whistle.
Let’s focus on Saturday now!!! #HalaMadrid https://t.co/BdcU0iKYyd

— Antonio Rüdiger (@ToniRuediger) October 24, 2023

It is good to see that no racist behaviour occurred at the final whistle. Rudiger’s full focus will now be on El Clasico, where he will hope to help Real Madrid pick up a second successive victory over Barcelona in their own backyard.