Portland Timbers allege racist taunt during match with Minnesota United, rips officials response

Portland Timbers head coach Giovanni Savarese said there was a racist taunt aimed at midfielder Diego Chara by a Minnesota United player during Saturday night's 1-0 loss.

The match was stopped in the 65th minute when players of the Timbers went to the officials alleging the taunt.

“I am very, extremely disappointed that we have to deal with situations like this that should not happen in any sport,” Savarese said. “There was a discriminatory word that was said to one of our players that cannot have any place in any sport, or anywhere.”

Officials held a short meeting with captains of both teams, but no disciplinary action was taken. 

“Major League Soccer is aware of the alleged incident that occurred during the Portland Timbers and Minnesota United match last night. MLS has zero tolerance for abusive and offensive language, and we take these allegations very seriously." MLS said in a statement to USA Today Sports. "An investigation into this matter has already begun. Further information will be provided upon the completion of that investigation.”

The St. Paul Pioneer Press reported that Minnesota United head coach Adrian Heath spoke with the player but the player denied saying anything. The team did not say who was involved in the incident.

"It's things that are not acceptable and in this game there was a situation that had to do with a racist situation," Savarese said.

The teams are next scheduled to face off on July 24 in St. Paul.