‘Unacceptable mistake’ – Mourinho and Tanganga react to events in Paris last night

UEFA have now opened an official investigation into the incidents that occurred in Paris last night during a Champions League match between PSG and Istanbul Basaksehir (BBC).

Allegations were made that the fourth official on the night, Sebastian Coltescu, made a racist remark towards the assistant coach of the Turkish club.

This incident occurred after the assistant, Pierre Webo, was shown a red card in a touchline exchange.

Mid-way through the first half, after the incident was reported, both teams walked off the pitch and the match was eventually abandoned. It has since been reported that the game will instead go ahead this evening with a new set of match officials.

Jose Mourinho and Japhet Tanganga both reacted to the incident today in their pre-match press conference ahead of the Antwerp game tomorrow night.

The Spurs head coach labelled it as an ‘unacceptable mistake’ from the fourth official, while Tanganga claimed that the reactions from both sides were ‘amazing’ to see.

Jose said (Charlie Eccleshare): “Forth official, only he can make his feelings clear. Of course, he made an unacceptable mistake. Only he can open his heart and apologise. Everyone in football we have our responsibilities and if we make mistakes you accept your responsibility.

“I know the referee personally, not the fourth official. Very good guy and a very good referee. To be involved, not directly, in a game that will become iconic is not a nice thing.”

Tanganga said (Football London): “What happened yesterday showed that the players are taking racism seriously. It was amazing from both sides and now it’s down to UEFA to find out exactly what happened.”

On taking the knee, he added: “Everyone has their opinions but us as football players have a duty and a voice to show that these situations are still happening.”

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