Brazil striker Grafite became the target of racists on the soccer field Thursday during a friendly against Guatemala in Sao Paulo, local media said on Thursday.

A banana with Grafite's name and the word "monkey" written on it was thrown onto the field before Wednesday's match at Pacaembu stadium, the Agencia Estado news service said.

Police did not immediately identified who threw the banana among the 35,000 fans, nearly all rooting for Brazil.

Grafite said he did not find out about the insult until talking to reporters after the match.

Grafite, who scored once in Brazil's 3-0 victory, was subjected to racism two weeks ago, in an episode that led to the arrest of Argentine defender Leandro Desabato on charges of using racist remarks against the Brazilian in a Copa Libertadores match.

Desabato spent nearly 40 hours in jail, and was allowed to leave Brazil only after signing a legal document promising to return for all legal proceedings. He faces three years in prison if found guilty, and could also be suspended by the South American soccer confederation (CONMEBOL).

Source: Xinhua