Super Falcons targeted with racist abuse before WAFCON in Morocco
Nigeria’s women’s football team, the Super Falcons, have faced a wave of racist abuse on social media as they prepare for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Several players, including Esther Okoronkwo, have been targeted with monkey and banana emojis after recent controversies involving the team. The abuse intensified following allegations of theft at the team’s hotel in Casablanca. Other players, such as Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala, Halimatu Ayinde, Joy Omewa, and Rinsola Babajide, have also been affected.
Match highlights
- The Super Falcons received racist comments and emojis on social media ahead of their tournament matches in Morocco.
- Esther Okoronkwo reported losing about $700 at the Marriott Hotel in Casablanca, with other teammates also alleging theft.
- A suspect was reportedly arrested in connection with the theft and confessed, with restitution promised to the players.
- The racist abuse extended to other players, including Rinsola Babajide, who previously faced similar attacks after commenting on a football controversy.
- Anti-racism groups have identified monkey and banana emojis as coded forms of racial abuse against Black athletes.
