Monkey chants allegedly directed at Tanjong Pagar’s Salif Cisse during a Singapore Premier League match

SINGAPORE – The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) is investigating allegations of racial abuse by fans against French striker Salif Cisse during a Singapore Premier League (SPL) match between Geylang International and Tanjong Pagar United on July 19.

The 32-year-old Tanjong Pagar player, whose family is from Mali, a West African country, has scored four goals in seven games. He told the Sunday Times: “Hearing monkey noises… and some words about my colour and my family was too much.

“I’m very surprised because I never thought I would have this experience in Singapore. After arriving in Singapore five months ago, I’ve never had this kind of experience in any stadium, and I know Singapore is not like that.

“I feel sad because football is for everyone, no matter your colour or whether you are a foreigner or not. I hope that the fans who made this mistake receive a severe sanction because racism is not welcome in football.”

“The best answer I can give is to score and play well on the pitch, it’s better than fighting or shouting at them.”

Observers told ST that Cisse, who scored the opening goal in the 5-3 loss to Geylang at the Jalan Besar Stadium, was subjected to racist comments and monkey chants in the first half.

An ST reader, who was present at the match but asked not to be named, said: “The monkey chants when Cisse received the ball were very obvious and it was shocking to hear. I hope the authorities can identify and punish the people involved. It came from the Geylang supporters’ section.”

The Jaguars congratulated the Eagles on their win in a July 20 post on their Facebook page, but highlighted the “unfortunate incident.”

He added that the club “will lodge an official complaint with the Football Association of Singapore and file a police report.”

An FAS spokesperson confirmed that it is aware of the allegations and takes the incident seriously.

He added: “There is no place for abuse, racism or violence in any form in football and serious action will be taken against any party found guilty of such offences.”

In a Facebook post to fans on July 20, Geylang said they are “working closely on an internal investigation” and will continue to work with their official fan club Ultra Eagles to “create a safer and more inclusive environment for all.”

The club also acknowledged that the incident “reflects poorly on our community as a whole” and does not represent the Singapore they want to share with foreign players. They have also contacted Tanjong Pagar to try and resolve the situation.

Ultra Eagles spokesman Rishi Raja said they have identified the group involved and noted that they are not members of the club.

He said: “We have provided our statement and report to the club and will work with them and the authorities involved in the investigation.

“We will not tolerate this type of behaviour. We are against racism and any form of discrimination towards anyone. We strive to create a positive football environment and experience for all fans when they come to watch matches.”