A friendly match between England and Venezuela Under-17s in Germany was disrupted by racist abuse directed at players, resulting in two interruptions that lasted approximately 50 minutes in total.
The incidents occurred during Wednesday evening's fixture in Duisburg, forcing the referee to halt play on two separate occasions whilst addressing the situation.
Despite the disruptions, England's young squad managed to secure a 2-1 victory after recovering from falling behind.
The source of the abuse and its specific targets remain unclear at this time, though reports suggest it was directed towards England players during the second half of the match.
A friendly match between England and Venezuela Under-17s in Germany was disrupted by racist abuse directed at players
|GETTY
The young players were forced to leave the field during the second half, with images showing visible distress among the squad.
Chelsea's 16-year-old midfielder Mathis Eboue was particularly affected by the incidents, appearing notably upset as the team departed the pitch.
16-year-old midfielder Mathis Eboue was particularly affected by the incidents and left the pitch consoled by boss Liam Bramley
|GETTY
Manager Liam Bramley was photographed providing comfort to his players as they walked off, offering support during the distressing situation.
The emotional impact on the teenage squad was evident as they dealt with the abuse, with Bramley seen consoling multiple members of his team throughout the disruptions.
The incidents marked a deeply troubling experience for England's youth players during what should have been a routine international friendly.
JUST IN: West Ham and Lucas Paqueta consider suing the FA after failed Man City move
England boss Liam Bramley managed to guide the side to a 2-1 victory
The Football Association has responded forcefully to the disturbing events, confirming they are handling the matter with the highest level of seriousness.
"We are aware of disturbing reports of racism towards England players at our MU17 match against Venezuela played in Germany today," an FA spokesperson stated.
The organisation emphasised that supporting their players and staff remains their immediate priority following the incidents.
**SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE DAILY GB NEWS SPORTS NEWSLETTER HERE**
"This is being treated with the utmost seriousness and our priority is to support our players and staff," the spokesperson continued.
The FA confirmed they are engaged in active dialogue with tournament organisers and appropriate authorities regarding the next course of action.
England ultimately prevailed with a 2-1 scoreline, mounting a comeback after initially trailing in the match.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Metz forward Brian Madjo got on the scoresheet for the Three Lions
|GETTY
Goals from Metz player Brian Madjo and Chelsea's Ryan Kavuma-McQueen secured the victory for Bramley's squad.
The fixture in Duisburg was the opening match of three scheduled games in the German city for England's youth team.
These friendlies serve as preparation ahead of their Euro 2026 qualifying campaign, which begins next month with matches in Lithuania.
No statement has been issued from the Venezuelan Football Federation at the time of reporting.