Social media backlash after AC Milan's 'bizarre' haka performance

A haka performed by AC Milan ahead of a Serie A match against Carpi has been described as 'bizarre,' 'pathetic' and 'atrocious' by fans.

AC Milan perform a haka before a Serie A match against Carpi. Source: YouTube

• The World Game: AC Milan perform publicity stunt version of the Haka against Carpi

Italian football club AC Milan are facing criticism online after a performing a strange version of the haka before a Serie A match against Carpi.

Video footage of the performance shows AC Milan doing a combination of movements - including a motion of rubbing cream on their faces - in front of the Carpi players lined up in front of them.

The performance was staged as a publicity stunt for the skincare brand Nivea and reportedly carried out by actors in AC Milan uniforms.

Fans and commentators were quick to lambaste the "haka" on social media: