By: Jonny Rico
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Controversy over a chant screamed at opposing goalkeepers by the Mexican National Team fans (“PUTO”) has started to cause a lot of trouble for a lot of people. The international soccer governing body FIFA has already issued the Mexican Soccer Federation (FMF) fines on two occasions over the ‘discriminatory’ chant. On Saturday afternoon Mexican National Team manager Juan Carlos Osorio and team vice-captain Andres Guardado addressed the media on the issue after receiving several questions regarding the chant and the new FMF campaign.
During the Copa America opening match between the United States Men’s National Team and Colombia, U.S. Spanish rights holders Univision issued a written statement to its TV viewers.
“We understand that it is possible that during the match some fans will use words or slogans that offend members of our audience and community in general. We all know that this can happen in any sporting event that is broadcast live, in no instance do we approve this type of language…”
On Saturday FMF officials released a video on all of its social media channels featuring all three Mexico goalkeepers at Copa America. The three ask fans to stop yelling the chant at the opposing goalie in the #YaParale (Stop It) campaign.
“I don’t want to imagine a game without you.” “This is not a game anymore.” “Let’s all stop the chant against the opposing goalkeeper.”
The FMF now have its back against the wall. FIFA has already imposed two financial fines and more serious consequences are on the horizon. Mexico could be forced to play its home matches during World Cup Qualifiers behind closed doors if the fans continue with the chant.
“I seriously don’t think anyone means any harm or offense when screaming (the chant) at the stadium,” said Andres Guardado. “But it stops being funny when you start facing consequences.
“I don’t think it (the chant) is offensive. But if FIFA thinks it is then its time to stop it.”
The issue now lays on the hands (and mouths) of the fans. Will the fans be willing to risk not having access to the game in order to keep yelling its trademark chant.
ALSO READ: Leave ‘Puto’ Alone
Copa America
