Chelsea's Under-19 team encountered alleged racist abuse during their UEFA Youth League encounter with Qarabag in Azerbaijan's capital on Wednesday, leading to a temporary halt in proceedings.
The disturbing incident unfolded when 17-year-old striker Sol Gordon found the net in the 57th minute at Baku's Azersun Stadium.
As the young Blues celebrated their opening goal near a section of home supporters, witnesses reported observing and hearing monkey gestures directed at the players.
The sparsely attended fixture was interrupted for several minutes whilst Ukrainian referee Dmytro Kubriak addressed the situation.
A Chelsea player was racially abused during a UEFA Youth League match against Qarabag
|PA
Chelsea have since issued a forceful condemnation of the alleged discriminatory behaviour, demanding comprehensive action from UEFA's disciplinary authorities.
Gordon and his teammates had approached a small group of Qarabag ultras following his strike, prompting fans to rush towards the advertising boards in confrontation.
The match officials intervened after Chelsea's players raised complaints about the alleged abuse.
Head coach Calum McFarlane and his coaching staff became involved in discussions with referee Dmytro Kubriak during the stoppage.
There appeared to be uncertainty about whether the match would continue, with Chelsea's squad visibly distressed by the incident.
The Blues ultimately decided to resume play after the brief interruption. Winger Jesse Derry received a booking for what was described as provocative celebrations in front of the home supporters during the match.
Chelsea released a comprehensive statement addressing the incident, declaring: "We are aware of an incident during today's Uefa Youth League match in Azerbaijan in which, after scoring, a number of our players were subjected to racist abuse from an individual in the crowd."
The club emphasised that "racism and all forms of discriminatory behaviour are completely unacceptable and have no place in football or indeed in society."
Chelsea confirmed they immediately reported the matter to UEFA's match delegate and the host club, expecting thorough investigation through UEFA's disciplinary procedures.
The statement praised their players and staff for their professional response, commending them for promptly alerting the referee and following UEFA protocols appropriately.
Following the stoppage, the match continued with Chelsea dominating proceedings to secure an emphatic 5-0 triumph.
Jesse Derry netted twice whilst substitutes Shim Mheuka and Frankie Runham also found the target to complete the rout.
Qarabag swiftly responded with an apology, expressing surprise at the incident and pledging a thorough investigation.
A club spokesperson stated it "doesn't represent the values of our club."
UEFA's disciplinary body will examine the referee's report before determining any potential sanctions. The victory maintains Chelsea's perfect record in the Youth League, with four wins from their opening four fixtures placing them at the summit of the table.