A television analyst has drawn widespread condemnation after making deeply offensive racist remarks during a World Cup match. Former player Rade Bogdanović was serving as a studio analyst on Serbian TV for Belgium 's game against Iran on Sunday when he voiced his abhorrent views.
Belgium were held to a frustrating 0-0 tie by Iran in their second Group G game in Los Angeles. The talent-laden Belgian squad now faces the very real threat of an early exit, having also been held by Egypt .
Their prospects of securing a vital victory were further damaged when defender Nathan Ngoy received a red card in the 66th minute for a last-man foul. The 23-year-old, earning just his sixth international cap, was devastated by the dismissal, via The Mirror .
Rade Bogdanović made racist comments on Serbian TV -Credit:RTS
Following the final whistle, viewers watching on Serbian national broadcaster RTS were subjected to the foul opinions of Bogdanović, whose playing career included stints at Atletico Madrid , Werder Bremen , and Yugoslavia.
"At this level, to be the last defender, to miss a ball that is standing still and then get sent off... I've always said these players, and I'm not racist, but black players don't have the concentration to last more than 60 to 80 minutes," Bogdanović said.
"I played with them. Sometimes we had to protect our own players from making mistakes. Modern football doesn't allow this kind of error at World Cup level."
After being pressed by the host, the 56-year-old continued: "If we wanted to go into details, we could. They make mistakes too. Of course, I'm not generalizing, but the majority lack concentration, and then situations like this happen."
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The former striker was far more complimentary about Iran, who secured their second consecutive point following their 2-2 draw with New Zealand .
"Iran is already a winner, the age of the team, the experience, the conditions under which they play," Bogdanović said. "I did not see that they were covered by the media, nor did the fans have the conditions to cheer for them.
"I would like from the bottom of my heart for them to beat Egypt and for Egypt to win tonight. I support them, you can see exactly the attitude towards the coat of arms."
Egypt rallied from behind to defeat New Zealand 3-1, claiming top spot in Group G. Mohamed Salah netted the decisive second goal to secure their first-ever victory at a World Cup in their fourth appearance at the tournament.
