FC Porto lost 1-0 to Sporting CP in the first leg of their Taca de Portugal semi-final, but it was again off-field drama that took the headlines.
As has now become normal under the new presidents of the ‘Big Three’ post-match coverage is all about officials.
This game was no different as it was decided by a penalty, but Porto‘s Francesco Farioli thinks his side should’ve been a man up.
Citing a challenge on Jan Bednarek, he attacked Sporting captain Morten Hjulmand over pressuring the referee to not hand out a red card.
“There are many clear images,” he said. “The ball wasn’t near our player.
“It’s a red card, there were some unbelievable gestures. Today we should perhaps be playing against Santa Clara or Aves SAD [Sporting’s previous cup opponents]. Gestures in front of the camera with a clear meaning.
“There’s no room for interpretation. There are many things. Hjulmand will constantly pressure the referee.
“It’s embarrassing to watch, but it is what it is. It’s time to turn the page and prepare for Benfica.”
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