Benfica lodge complaint to FPF over appointment of Gustavo Correia for Gil Vicente - Rio Ave | OneFootball

According to Glorioso 1904, Benfica have filed an official complaint with the FPF over the appointment of referee Gustavo Correia for Gil Vicente v Rio Ave. The Refereeing Council’s decision angered the club and prompted a formal response from president Rui Costa.

The protest stems from the contentious Famalicão v Benfica in the 32nd round last season. Correia was reprimanded after a disciplinary inquiry found he reported facts that did not match the truth regarding the behaviour of Benfica’s general director, Mário Branco, amid an alleged case of mistaken identity.

At the time, the referee wrote that Branco had insulted him and attempted to approach the officiating team, a version supported by the League delegate. However, CCTV from Estádio Municipal de Famalicão showed the Benfica official did not physically approach the officials, leading to a disciplinary sanction for the Porto Football Association referee.

The case also brought consequences for Benfica. Branco was suspended for insults directed at the referee, while Rui Costa publicly criticised the officiating and was sanctioned by the FPF’s Disciplinary Council. That case remains pending a final decision following an appeal to the Tribunal Arbitral do Desporto.

Given this backdrop, Benfica believed Correia should not be selected for the opening round of the league season. His appointment to Gil Vicente v Rio Ave has therefore triggered the club’s formal complaint to the federation. The move is likely to rekindle controversy around refereeing in Portugal.

Source: Glorioso 1904

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