Uruguay star Jose Gimenez could be handed a huge 15-game ban after he appeared to elbow an official after his nation’s exit from the World Cup.
The South American side were tipped by many to go deep into the World Cup in Qatar as dark horses for the tournament but failed to qualify for the knockout phase despite beating Ghana in their final group game.
South Korea came from behind to beat Portugal and climb above Uruguay into second place to secure their passage into the last 16.
Luis Suarez was seen in tears on the bench, Edinson Cavani punched a TV monitor on his way down the tunnel and further footage has emerged to put Gimenez in hot water.
Furious over referee Daniel Siebert’s decision not to award Cavani a late penalty, Gimenez was seen elbowing a FIFA official in the back of the head during his attempts to confront Siebert.
The Atletico Madrid star had to be held back by his teammates and Mundo Deportivo claim he could now be banned for up to 15 games.
Gimenez shouted down the camera in the wake of the altercation: “They [the referees] are all a bunch of thieves these sons of b***hes,” he fumed. “Yes, record me. Son of a b***h.”
It’s not clear whether that ban would translate into domestic football in what would be a huge blow to Atletico Madrid.
Cavani and Suarez could also face FIFA action for their reactions to the result.
Suarez said at the end of the game: “I see a penalty for Cavani because he is cut off by the defender and he puts his body in front of him. Darwin’s is very clear too. They are not excuses, but incredible penalties are being awarded in this World Cup. And there is the committee of referees and FIFA, and they have to try to explain themselves better, at least.”
Instead of Uruguay it was South Korea who made it through to the knockout phase of the World Cup, and they’re set to take on Brazil on Monday evening.
READ MORE: Ranking all 26 England squad members by their contribution to World Cup group stage GLORY
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Football365…