During the Colorado Rapids’ 4-1 win over CF Montréal on Saturday, multiple signs and tifos backing defender Moïse Bombito were scattered around the stands, particularly behind the south goal, where the Centennial 38 supporters group is located. The show of support for Bombito, who is Black and also plays for the Canadian men’s national team, came after he became the target of racist harassment on social media last week following a Copa America match last Thursday against Argentina. Bombito tackled Inter Miami star and World Cup champion Lionel Messi during that match while tracking back to stop an Argentinian attack on goal.
Messi went down with an injury but finished the match and even provided an assist on Argentina’s second and final goal. After the match, and left hundreds of hateful messages. Not long after, Bombito posted a photo of himself on Instagram with captions saying “My beautiful Canada” with a heart emoji, and “No room for that bs.
” The day after, the Rapids put out a statement on social media: “We’re extending our love and standing beside Moïse Bombito. Discrimination and racism should never find a place in our sport, on social media, or within our society.” The Rapids supporters continued that theme during the 16th and 65th minutes on Saturday’s match, with “Bombito” chants echoing around Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.
Bombito wears No. 15 for Canada and No. 64 for the Rapids.
Following the match against Montréal, Rapids coach.
