Football fans were left in utter disgust on Monday by the lack of sportsmanship displayed by DR Congo player Ruth Kipoyi. A video surfaced showing her punching a Moroccan opponent, which quickly went viral.

Kipoyi was engaged in a heated scuffle during DR Congo’s friendly match with Morocco, leading to her punching Moroccan star Yasmine Mrabet in the face.

Before the punch, 26-year-old Kipoyi received a red card for an aggressive challenge. Yasmine Mrabet tried to calm Kipoyi down, but the midfielder, who plays for Galatasaray, unleashed a left hook to Mrabet’s jaw, sending her to the turf.

Some people are calling for serious punishment, with one social media user saying: ‘Should be prison time for assault.’

Mrabet, the player punched by Kipoyi, released a statement via Instagram, regarding the incident.

She said: ‘This violent behaviour should not be accepted. During the competition, disagreements can occur, and tensions are bound to build, but there are lines which must never be crossed…

‘This incident should not overshadow the exponential growth of our football in the last couple of years. African teams are showing up on the world stage and for a reason. 

‘The appropriate procedures are underway to report the past events and from now on I’m only looking forward.’

At the time of the incident, the score was poised at 2-1 in the Moroccan’s favour, Morocco went on to win the match 3-2, and following the final whistle.

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