BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Barcelona is backing Dani Alves for his response to a racist taunt. Teammate Neymar also is offering support by posting an online photo of himself with a banana.

Alves, who is black, was about to take a corner kick during Sunday's 3-2 win at Villarreal when a banana was thrown at him. The Brazilian star picked it up, peeled it and ate some of it before throwing the rest aside.

After the match, Alves said humor is the best way to combat racism in sports. Alves has often been subjected to racist taunts.

Barcelona expressed its "complete support and solidarity" with Alves. Besides Neymar, Argentina striker Sergio Aguero, Brazil women's striker Marta and former Brazil international Roberto Carlos posted Internet photos of themselves with bananas.

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