Mathys Tel Speaks Out Against Racist Abuse After UEFA Super Cup Defeat

Tottenham's Mathys Tel shows resilience in face of online hate

Tottenham forward Mathys Tel responds to racist abuse after UEFA Super Cup loss, saying 'racism has no place in our society'

Tottenham Hotspur forward Mathys Tel is determined to rise above the racial abuse he faced online after his team's UEFA Super Cup defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. Tel, who missed a penalty in the shootout, received “abhorrent” racist abuse on social media, prompting Spurs to release a statement condemning the “cowards” behind the vile comments.

Mathys Tel on Instagram 🤍 pic.twitter.com/tOhhSAZXQX

— The Spurs Express (@TheSpursExpress) August 19, 2025

Key Points:

Tel's Response: “I was also disappointed about Wednesday night but racism has no place in our society,” Tel posted on social media, showing his resolve not to let the abuse bring him down.

Spurs' Statement: Tottenham Hotspur expressed their disgust at the racial abuse, saying, “Those who abuse him are nothing but cowards - hiding behind anonymous usernames and profiles to spout their abhorrent views.”

Support and Action: The club vowed to work with authorities and social media platforms to take strong action against the offenders, emphasizing their support for Tel: “We stand with you, Mathys.”

Context: The incident highlights the ongoing issue of online racism in football, with Tel becoming the latest high-profile player to face such abuse.

Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo recently faced racist abuse during his team's 4-2 loss to Liverpool at Anfield. In response, Semenyo emphasized his resilience, saying, “I know where I come from, where I started, and none of this will bring me down. With work and humility, respect reigns.” This powerful statement highlights his determination to rise above hateful comments.

Key Developments:

Arrests and Ban: A 47-year-old man from Liverpool was arrested on suspicion of racially abusing Semenyo, conditionally bailed, and banned from attending soccer matches.

Football Association's Response: The FA expressed concern over the allegation of racism towards Semenyo, assuring that appropriate action would be taken.

Support from Tottenham: The incident echoes the recent experience of Tottenham's Mathys Tel, who faced racist abuse online after missing a penalty in the UEFA Super Cup loss to Paris Saint-Germain. Tottenham condemned the abuse, stating, “Those who abuse him are nothing but cowards.”

Semenyo's Focus: Despite the abuse, Semenyo seems focused on his game, and his team's performance, emphasizing the importance of respect earned through hard work and humility.