Atletico Madrid fans hang Vinicius Jr. doll on bridge ahead of derby match

By Emre Asikci

ISTANBUL (AA) - Ahead of Thursday's derby, Atletico Madrid fans hung an effigy of Real's winger Vinicius Junior from a bridge near their opponents' training ground in the Spanish city.

The fans made headlines by hanging the mannequin in Vinicius' number-20 jersey with a banner in Atletico Madrid's red and white colors reading "Madrid hates Real."

Atletico Madrid later released a statement condemning actions of hate against Real Madrid's Brazilian star.

"That such acts are absolutely repugnant and inadmissible and shame society. Our condemnation of any act that attacks the dignity of persons or institutions is categorical and unreserved," Atletico Madrid said.

La Liga also strongly condemned acts of hatred and intimidation against Vinicius.

"LaLiga, as in the past, will press for an investigation into the matter by relevant state security forces and bodies, seeking convictions for those responsible and requesting the most severe sentences," the league said on Twitter.

- Real Madrid issues statement supporting Vinicius Jr.

For their part, Real Madrid published a strong statement condemning racist behavior against their Brazilian player.

Los Blancos thanked people for their messages of support, saying: "Real Madrid C.F. would like to thank the support and expressions of affection received after the unfortunate and disgusting act of racism, xenophobia and hatred against our player Vinicius."

"Real Madrid is confident that all the responsibilities of those who have participated in such a despicable act will be purged," Real Madrid added.

The club will host Atletico in the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey at Santiago Bernabeu later on Thursday.