A dramatic Champions League opener between Liverpool and Atlético Madrid didn’t simply present goal-mouth motion; it’s triggered disciplinary motion. Following the match, UEFA has launched an investigation into varied incidents, together with the purple card proven to Atlético coach Diego Simeone and studies of objects thrown from the group.
Though the complete sanctions haven’t been introduced, Atlético are bracing for a possible one-match ban for Simeone, plus a doable nice. The match, which ended 3-2 in favor of Liverpool, featured a stoppage-time winner from Virgil van Dijk, sparking each jubilation and controversy.
The sport at Anfield began off in emphatic style for Liverpool. Inside the first six minutes, they have been up 2-0, because of early targets from Andy Robertson (a deflected free kick) and Mohamed Salah.
Nonetheless, Atlético fought again. Marcos Llorente scored simply earlier than halftime to make it 2-1 after which struck once more within the 81st minute with a shocking volley (with a slight deflection) to stage the match. It appeared like the sport was heading towards a draw.
The Atletico Madrid coach should serve his suspension throughout Champions League matches.
However within the 92nd minute, Virgil van Dijk headed within the profitable aim for Liverpool from a nook, securing a dramatic 3-2 win. Instantly after that aim, feelings boiled over, bringing the technical space and stands into focus.
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Simeone’s purple card and aftermath
Proper after Van Dijk’s aim, Simeone was concerned in an altercation with a fan sitting simply behind the Atlético bench. He obtained right into a heated alternate, needed to be restrained by stewards, and was proven a direct purple card by referee Maurizio Mariani for “unsporting conduct.” UEFA’s match report described it broadly as such.
Simeone later acknowledged that his conduct was unjustifiable, although he claimed he’d been subjected to verbal abuse all through the match (he stated for “90 minutes”) from followers behind the bench. He expressed frustration however admitted he additionally bears some duty for reacting.
Disciplinary measures in sight
The disciplinary file at UEFA consists of each Simeone and Liverpool. For Simeone, the anticipated punishment is a one-match touchline ban, prone to be served in Atlético’s subsequent Champions League house sport in opposition to Eintracht Frankfurt. There may be a financial nice.
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For Liverpool, the matter revolves round crowd conduct. The report mentions objects thrown from the stands through the match. These actions may result in fines or different stadium sanctions, relying on how severe UEFA deems the violations.
There’s additionally an allegation (nonetheless beneath evaluate) that Atlético’s nutritionist, David Lagos, spat at a fan through the chaos. UEFA is investigating that side as properly.
