Abel dodges questions on Pulgar controversy, but jibes: "Ref was friendly" | OneFootball

The coach of Palmeiras, Abel Ferreira, avoided talking about the controversial play involving Erick Pulgar in the final of the Libertadores, held this Saturday in Lima against Flamengo. After finishing second, the coach only mentioned that the referee was “nice.”

“I think the referee was nice, he didn't want to ruin the final. There was a questionable play in the first half that could have changed the game. You know what I'm talking about. The referee didn't give a red card, but I will try to refrain from commenting on the refereeing. The images are there,” Abel remarked in a press conference.

The incident occurred at 30 minutes into the first half. With the game already stopped, Pulgar landed a studs-up tackle on the shin of Bruno Fuchs, who fell to the ground. Palmeiras players demanded a sending-off, but the match referee, Darío Herrera, only issued a yellow card.

Missed Opportunity

With the defeat, Palmeiras lost the chance to become the first Brazilian club to win the fourth title of the Libertadores. Additionally, the Verdão was avenged for the 2021 continental title, won against Flamengo in Uruguay.

The Alviverde now picks up the pieces and tries to reposition itself in the race for the Brazilian Championship title. Abel Ferreira's team is in second place on the table with 70 points, five less than the leader Flamengo, with two rounds remaining in the competition.

Palmeiras' Next Match

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