António Nobre for Benfica v Sporting: bad news, history warns | OneFootball

Sport Lisboa e Benfica received with great apprehension the news of António Nobre's appointment to officiate this Friday's derby. The Arbitration Council's choice fell on the referee from the Leiria Football Association, whose recent past in matches involving the Eagles is marred by technical and disciplinary decisions that directly influenced negative results. Review Mauro Xavier's criticisms of the referee, exclusively at Glorioso 1904.

VAR Controversy Cost Points

The most critical episode in the memory of the Reds dates back to last season, during the 2-2 draw against Arouca. In that match, António Nobre awarded a penalty for an alleged foul by Nicolás Otamendi. The video assistant referee (VAR) alerted the referee to the absence of an infraction, recommending a review of the footage, but the referee chose to ignore the technology and uphold the decision.

Another moment that fuels the Reds' protest occurred at Estádio do Bessa, in the 3-2 defeat against Boavista in the opening round of 2023/24. António Nobre was the protagonist by sending off Petar Musa, a former Eagles forward, in a decision considered excessive.

Indignation rises when comparing this disciplinary strictness with the leniency shown towards this round's opponent. This season, António Nobre has already been involved in controversies for sparing Gonçalo Inácio and Ousmane Diomande from clear expulsions in Sporting matches.

Throughout his career, António Nobre has officiated 14 Benfica matches, with the Eagles winning 10, drawing two, and losing two. Looking at Sporting's record with the 37-year-old referee, the numbers speak for themselves: 17 wins, one draw, and one loss.

Frequently Asked Questions about António Nobre

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