South Korean soccer star Son Heung Min has once again been subjected to racist abuse after a missed opportunity during a crucial match between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City last night.
In a highly anticipated Premier League showdown in North London, both teams had much at stake. Tottenham aimed for a top-four finish and sought to increase pressure on Aston Villa as they vied for a Champions League spot. For Manchester City, the game was critical in securing their hold on the Premier League title, with Arsenal close on their heels, hoping for any slip-up from their rivals.
The game first saw Manchester City take the lead when Erling Haaland tapped in Kevin De Bruyne‘s cross shortly after half-time.
A HUGE moment in the title race! 😲
Erling Haaland won’t have many easier finishes 😅 pic.twitter.com/DIEM8HAn2f
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 14, 2024
Following the goal, the match featured numerous chances for both sides, but none as significant as the one that fell to Son. Breaking through the defense, Son faced a one-on-one with City’s goalkeeper, who made a brilliant save to deny him.
What a vital save that is in the title race from Stefan Ortega! 😲 pic.twitter.com/XatVw2GetK
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 14, 2024
The miss became the pivotal moment, as City was later awarded a penalty, which Haaland converted, sealing a 2-0 victory for the visitors.
Erling Haaland doubles City’s lead from the spot! 🎯 pic.twitter.com/49RUZGpvtF
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 14, 2024
Son’s missed chance sparked anger among Arsenal supporters, who were hoping for a Tottenham win to keep their title hopes alive. The frustration quickly escalated into abusive comments on Son’s Instagram, with some fans accusing him of deliberately missing the shot and others resorting to racist slurs and “jokes.”
I’ve never seen Son miss such a 1v1. I remember even VVD calling him one of the best at these. I hope they paid him enough money to make his eyes bigger.. corrupt mf. Hell fire awaits you pic.twitter.com/ttHarj4Aab
— Thee Thespian✌ (@tumuz_amon) May 15, 2024
History tradition class or something pic.twitter.com/S4uj0BYDZO
— rásputin fagioli (@diggerowa) May 14, 2024
Until you retire from football, Heung Min Son, you will never lift a trophy. pic.twitter.com/kx4HkuEEMT
— Ethel (@Afc_Ethel) May 15, 2024
Meanwhile, Spurs fans have condemned the insults from Arsenal fans and defended Son on social media. Fans of the team have also taken to Son’s Instagram to leave positive comments and try to overshadow the negativity.
If you love HM Son comment with a ♥️. pic.twitter.com/JHHjApfB45
— REECY (@UTDReecy) May 15, 2024
Heung min son appreciation post, no man city fan will scroll past without liking 💙 pic.twitter.com/MB6vC6TyT5
— Jacky (@MCFC_Jacky) May 14, 2024
Unfortunately, this is not the first instance where Son has faced such absurd vitriol. The recurrence of racial abuse highlights a significant issue within the sport that fans and players alike urge the English Football Association to address. Son’s resilience in the face of such adversity continues to inspire, but the need for a comprehensive response to such behavior is more urgent than ever.
