Mateus Mendes alleges racism after Alverca exit as Oliveira denies claims
Under the floodlights of the fifth‑round Serie 3 match in Portugal, 24‑year‑old goalkeeper Mateus Mendes lifted his phone and posted a string of accusations that he had been called “Macaco”, “Preto sujo” and “Volte pra sua terra” by opponents of FC Oliveira do Hospital. The former Palmeiras academy product, who had just terminated his contract with Alverca B, said the slurs were shouted in the added minutes of the game and heard by many witnesses.
Mateus Mendes’ account of the incident
In his social‑media statement, Mendes wrote, “There are witnesses. Many saw, many heard and everyone stayed silent.” He also apologised to his former Alverca teammates and criticised the club’s handling of the episode, invoking Vinícius Júnior – a shareholder of Alverca and previous victim of racist abuse – as a benchmark for solidarity.
FC Oliveira do Hospital’s rebuttal
FC Oliveira do Hospital’s SAD issued an official communiqué denying any racist or xenophobic remarks occurred. The club pointed to the match‑official report, which recorded no such incident, and insisted that referees, security staff, players and technical staff heard nothing of that nature. It demanded that Mendes provide concrete proof to substantiate his claims.
The Portuguese side also alleged that Mendes had violently assaulted two opposing players after the final whistle, contradicting his own narrative of being the victim. The club said it would support the aggrieved players and ensure they receive any necessary assistance.
The dispute marks the abrupt end of Mendes’ brief European stint, which featured two expulsions during his time with Alverca B. After joining the Portuguese side at the start of the 2026/2027 season, the goalkeeper’s contract was rescinded following the controversy.
Beyond the personal drama, the episode arrives as Conmebol reportedly prepares a sanction against Palmeiras for unrelated incidents involving Alexander Barboza, Agustín Giay and Mauricio. The South American governing body’s pending decision could see the Brazilian club cut from the Libertadores, a development highlighted in recent Notícias headlines.
Endrick’s mother has also been quoted urging her son to prioritise Palmeiras, underscoring the club’s continued relevance in Brazilian football discourse despite the turbulence surrounding its youth products.
Legal proceedings are now set to determine whether the alleged racist insults can be proven, while both clubs maintain their respective positions pending a judicial ruling.