Plata’s red card sparks outrage, Flamengo vow action with Conmebol | OneFootball

Flamengo prepares document to contest Plata's expulsion in match against Estudiantes (ARG)

Flamengo will send a formal request to Conmebol in an attempt to overturn the expulsion of Gonzalo Plata. The referee handed out the red card in the final moments of the 2-1 victory over Estudiantes (ARG) this Thursday (18th), at Maracanã, during the quarterfinals of the Libertadores.

The refereeing decision caused strong dissatisfaction within Flamengo. According to reporting by Coluna do Fla, the board has begun drafting a letter with the aim of ensuring Plata is cleared to play in the return leg, scheduled for next Thursday (25th) in Argentina.

WHAT HAPPENED IN THE EXPULSION INCIDENT?

The controversial episode occurred in the 82nd minute of the second half. Already on a yellow card, Gonzalo Plata received a second yellow after referee Andrés Rojas interpreted a kick on Facundo Rodríguez as reckless conduct.

The Flamengo forward showed indignation and requested a review of the incident via VAR. However, the Colombian referee was not called to the monitor for a new analysis.

WHAT IS THE CLUB'S POSITION ON THE DECISION?

Behind the scenes, Flamengo officials believe the refereeing made a clear mistake in the incident. In their view, the referee's interpretation was excessive and compromised the fair flow of the match.

Right after the final whistle, football director José Boto and coach Filipe Luís publicly criticized Andrés Rojas' performance. The expulsion, seen as unfair, prompted the formal request to Conmebol.

Now, all eyes are on Conmebol's response. That's because, if the organization accepts the appeal, Plata will be able to play in the decisive away match.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.