[REVISION HISTORY]

Corinthians eliminate Rosario Central amid racism claims

Updated 14 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-09-09 16:52 UTC → 2026-09-09 20:04 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The 2026 Copa Libertadores round of 16 matchup between Rosario Central and Corinthians began with a 0-0 draw at the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito. The first leg was marred by mutual accusations of misconduct. Corinthians goalkeeper Hugo Souza triggered CONMEBOL’s anti-racism protocol after alleging he was targeted with racial slurs, including being called ‘monkey’, by local fans. In response, Rosario Central contested these claims, accusing Corinthians supporters of “racist, discriminatory, and provocative” acts, such as tearing up Argentine banknotes and brandishing a Spanish national team jersey to mock the host country. Heading into the second leg, Corinthians faced significant roster challenges, including the absence of Memphis Depay and striker Yuri Alberto, leaving Rodrigo Garro as the sole remaining member of the club’s influential ‘GYM’ trio. In the return leg at the Neo Química Arena, Corinthians secured a 1-0 victory via a set ~~piece, capitalizing on a defensive error~~ piece to eliminate Rosario ~~Central from the tournament.~~ Central. Despite playing with ten men for much of the second half following Raniele’s dismissal, Breno Bidon scored the winning goal following a free kick by Memphis Depay. Following the elimination, Rosario Central star Ángel Di María addressed concerns regarding his future. After initial comments that caused supporter anxiety, he clarified on social media, ‘I am not abandoning [the club]’, explaining his previous remarks were made in a moment of “anguish and ~~frustration” following the loss. He described the situation as a “comma” rather than a full stop, expressing his intent to continue with the team in domestic competitions.~~ frustration”. On September 9, 2026, Di María ~~further dismissed retirement rumors during~~ held a press ~~conference,~~ conference at the club's Arroyo Seco complex to dismiss retirement rumors, stating, ‘I ~~don’t~~ don't want ~~to,~~ to retire, nor am I going to ~~retire,’ and~~ retire. I am happy, enjoying Argentine football.’ He confirmed his contract extends until June ~~2027.~~ 2027 and criticized media coverage for amplifying tension and creating a ‘perception of crisis’ that does not reflect the team's internal reality. Corinthians will face Estudiantes in the quarter-finals.

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