During the game, a part of the attendees chanted the xenophobic slogan 'Muslim who doesn't jump', directed at the Egyptian players. This regrettable incident contrasted sharply with the loud ovation received by FC Barcelona footballer Lamine Yamal, who is Muslim, before the match began.
Although the general atmosphere was festive and supportive of the Spanish national team, some fans also booed the Egyptian anthem and directed other offensive expressions towards the opposing team. In the stands, only Joan García, another Spanish player, received boos, while Lamine Yamal was almost unanimously cheered.
“"I regret the unacceptable behavior of a part of the stands at the Spain-Egypt match. We have asked those responsible to activate the protocols and we will continue working so that sport is a space for inclusion, without hatred or racism. We are a country of welcome, respect, and coexistence."
The night, which marked 'la Roja's' reunion with Barcelona four years after their last match in Catalonia, highlighted a clear contradiction: while one part of the public embraced Lamine Yamal, another attacked people of the same faith with xenophobic insults.
During halftime, the chants reappeared but were silenced by boos from the rest of the public. On the screens of the Espanyol stadium, a warning message against such manifestations was displayed, emphasizing the need to ensure that football remains a space free of racism and xenophobia.
