OSCAR BANNED FOR EIGHT MATCHES OVER BRAWL
Former Chelsea star Oscar had been handed eight game ban for his involvement in a brawl during a Chinese Super League brawl.
The Brazil international triggered the brawl when Shanghai SIPG clashed with Guangzhou R&F.
Oscar fired the ball intentionally at opponents two times forcing the Guangzhou players to rush at him, triggering a brawl. He fell to the ground as others joined in. The Chinese Football Association (CFA) reviewed the case before delivering a verdict of eight game ban and a fine of $6,000. The same ban was issued to three others that were principal sinners.
The 25-year old shocked the football community when he agreed to a move to China despite being in the prime of his career at Stamford Bridge and playing a critical role in the Brazilian national team. He is one of the biggest players in the Chinese Super League after his record €60 million move to SIPG.
After the brawl, Oscar escaped booking until the panel reviewed the case, finding him guilty of sparking the incident. He is not expected to return to football until August. This might affect Coach Andre Villas-Boas’ plan as the second placed SIPG hope to topple league leaders Guangzhou Evergrande. SIPG are set to meet the rivals on July 22 which Oscar would now sit out.
The brawl led to participation from other players, coaches and others. The league management could not let such go unattended. Two payers were sent off from each side: SIPG’s Fu Han and Guangzhou’s Li Tixiang. The CFAbanned Huan for six games while Tixiang got five games ban. Oscar was likely extended as he was not red carded in the game despite causing the brawl.
The CFA banned Qin Sheng for six months in March for stomping intentionally an opponent. All these are measures to protect the reputation of the league the CFA claims. Oscar denies intentional effort but any appeal by SIPG would likely be futile.