USA’s Nations League win vs. rival Mexico under investigation after game had to be halted over homophobic chants with CONCACAF looking into ‘extremely disappointing’ incident

CONCACAF has confirmed that it is investigating the homophobic chanting which marred the United States’ Nations League win over Mexico.

The USMNT won a third-straight crown but the match at AT&T Stadium was halted twice because of slurs directed at US goalkeeper Matt Turner.

In a statement, the governing body said the incident was being looked into, with Mexico waiting to find out if it will face more punishment over the chant.

‘We are in the process of gathering the official match reports and all relevant information from the game,’ CONCACAF said, per ESPN.

‘As is standard, once this process is concluded, the matter will be referred to our Independent Judicial Bodies for their proper consideration.

USMNT goalkeeper Matt Turner was the subject of homophobic chants against Mexico

‘As we expressed shortly after the conclusion of the match, we are extremely disappointed that this matter continues to be an issue at some matches and we will continue, through our What’s Wrong Is Wrong campaign and additional efforts, to urge fans to support their teams positively and with respect for the opposition and all participants in the game.’

With the US leading 2-0 in the final minutes of Sunday’s match in Texas, in front of a crowd of 59,471, Mexico fans were heard chanting ‘puto’.  

The slur means male prostitute but in Mexican Spanish it translates roughly as ‘f*****’ and is often used to criticize someone’s masculinity.  Supporters could be heard shouting it repeatedly as Turner took goal kicks at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. 

After numerous calls went out over the stadium speakers, referee Drew Fischer paused the game for nearly five minutes. After play was resumed, the chanting continued and the referee was forced to halt the game for a second time just moments before full-time.

Mexico’s Football Federation has been fined several times over the chant, despite supporters being urged to stop the practice. 

Back in 2021, FIFA sanctioned Mexico to play two World Cup qualifying home games behind closed doors because of ongoing use of the homophobic chant.