Soccer Player Accuses Opponent of Making Monkey Sounds

Ezekiel Henty, a player for Hapoel Rishon LeZion, has accused Matan Levi of Bnei Yehuda of making monkey-like noises at him during a recent match. Henty described the incident as "inhuman" and "a red line" that went beyond typical on-field insults. He stated that while he usually disregards taunts from opposing fans as part of the game, such behavior from another player is unacceptable and constitutes racism.

Henty reported the incident to the referee, who was reportedly close by, but claims the referee denied hearing or seeing anything and allowed the game to continue. Henty chose not to stop playing out of respect for Israeli football and the National League, despite his teammates urging him to walk off the field. He explained that he has played in Israel for three seasons and has never encountered such behavior from a player before.

After the game, Levi reportedly attempted to apologize, but Henty refused, stating it was too late and that the act was unforgivable. Henty emphasized that this was not a simple insult but a form of hate speech that dehumanizes him. He hopes the Football Association will take action to send a strong message against racism in football.

While Henty's teammates were angered by the incident, a friend from Bnei Yehuda, Eli Levi, has reportedly promised to address the situation with Matan Levi. Bnei Yehuda declined to comment on the matter.