LAFC Defender Sergi Palencia Accused Of Using Hate Speech During Soccer Match

LAFC defender Sergi Palencia is currently under investigation … after being accused of using a derogatory term toward a Colorado Rapids player during Tuesday night’s contest.

Play was halted at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles during the 85th minute of the Concacaf Champions Cup match … when Rapids defender Chidozie Awaziem began speaking intensely with a referee over what he deemed hate speech.

The official then talked to both coaches and the respected team captains before the action was resumed … which ended in a Rapids loss by a final score of 1-0.

In a statement, CONCACAF announced it launched an investigation into the alleged incident — saying it would “involve a thorough review of the match officials’ reports, available match footage, and the respective positions of both clubs.”

Postgame, Rapids manager Chris Armas briefly addressed the situation … saying the club is fully behind Awaziem as the probe plays out.

LAFC released its own statement … saying that they have spoken with its players about the incident — and they are “A club for all and stands against hate in any form.”