UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings following the chaotic scenes that marred the closing stages of Liverpool’s 3–2 Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid at Anfield last week.
A stoppage-time winner from Liverpool’s towering skipper Virgil van Dijk sealed the points for Arne Slot’s side but simultaneously sparked ugly confrontations on the touchline.
Atleti boss Diego Simeone clashed with supporters behind the visiting bench, had to be restrained by staff, and was eventually shown a red card by the match official after appearing to gesture towards the crowd.
Simeone later apologised for his actions but accused a section of Liverpool fans of subjecting him to non-stop abuse throughout the match. “They insult you constantly,” he told reporters, while calling on the club and UEFA to take action against those involved.
Footage circulating on social media appeared to show a bottle thrown from the stands during the altercation, while reports also suggest an Atletico backroom staff member may have spat in the direction of fans.
According to reports, UEFA has now charged both Simeone and Liverpool, with the governing body investigating the Argentine’s conduct as well as the behaviour of home supporters.
Liverpool could face a fine for crowd trouble, and in more severe circumstances, partial stadium closures if serious misconduct is proven.
Simeone, meanwhile, risks a touchline ban, with a one-game suspension ruling him out of Atletico’s upcoming clash with Eintracht Frankfurt. A lengthier ban would also see him miss their trip to Arsenal on October 21.
Both Liverpool and Atlético have been given the opportunity to respond before UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body issues its verdict.
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