LAFC's Diomande says he received racial abuse during Timbers contest

Los Angeles FC striker Adama Diomande revealed on Instagram that he was the target of a racial slur during a game against the Portland Timbers on Wednesday night.

The Norway striker, whose parents hail from the Ivory Coast, wrote in a caption alongside a plain black background that he was called "the N word" during his side's 3-2 U.S. Open Cup win against its West Coast rival.

The 28-year-old, who's scored nine goals in seven MLS appearances since arriving from Hull City in May, said: "Today was the first time in my professional career that I was called the N word on the field. They will say sorry to me after the game and please let it go, but if I don’t say anything racism will just continue to grow."

Diomande didn't specify whether the slur came from an opposing player or a fan.

The Timbers released a statement after the match in which they confirmed they'd be opening an investigation.

"The club is aware of the accusations posted on Instagram following Wednesday night's U.S. Open Cup game and is in direct communication with LAFC management, league officials, and internal staff to gather more information," the statement said, as quoted by ESPN. "At this time, we are awaiting more details as we actively continue to investigate the matter. The club will provide further information when it becomes available.

"The Timbers and those associated with the club do not tolerate discriminatory, disrespectful, or offensive behavior of any kind, under any circumstances, and it does not reflect the values of the club or the community which it represents."

This was not the only such instance of racial discrimination in North American soccer to have been publicly revealed in recent times. Among others, Toronto FC striker Jozy Altidore was on the receiving end of a discriminatory message from a Tigres fan after the Reds' win over the Mexican side in March.