Temi Kings
Major League Soccer has formally opened an investigation into reports of antisemitic and discriminatory abuse directed at New England Revolution forward Dor Turgeman during Saturday’s 2-2 draw against CF Montréal at Saputo Stadium. The 22-year-old Israeli international was targeted by abusive language and chants from sections of the home crowd shortly before scoring New England’s second goal. Broadcast audio captured discriminatory chanting aimed at Turgeman prior to his finish, prompting immediate outrage and leading New England officials to formally report the incident to league headquarters.
The situation escalated following Turgeman’s 36th-minute goal, which gave the Revolution a temporary 2-0 lead. The striker responded to the hostility by celebrating directly in front of Montréal’s supporters’ section, standing with outstretched arms before placing his hand to his ear as he walked along the end line. The celebration triggered a heated reaction from the stands, with fans gesticulating and throwing objects onto the pitch, while a brief melee broke out on the field that saw Montréal goalkeeper Sebastian Breza booked for his role in the confrontation. CF Montréal eventually fought back in the second half with goals from Brayan Vera and Prince Owusu to split the points in a 2-2 finish.
In an official statement released on Monday, August 3, the New England Revolution strongly condemned the treatment of their player, reiterating that there is zero tolerance for antisemitism, harassment, or discrimination anywhere in the sport. The club praised MLS for its swift initiation of disciplinary proceedings and expressed hope that those responsible would be held fully accountable. CF Montréal also issued a statement confirming that it is actively reviewing stadium footage and evidence in collaboration with MLS authorities and the Revolution, emphasizing that hateful behavior and discrimination have no place within their organization or venue.
