Conmebol clears Memphis for Corinthians v Estudiantes in Libertadores | OneFootball

Memphis Depay will be available for Corinthians in the decisive clash against Estudiantes in the Libertadores. The forward will not be suspended before this Wednesday’s match (16) at 9:30 p.m. (Brasília time) at Neo Química Arena, which will determine one of the competition’s semifinalists.

The Dutchman’s situation will still be reviewed by Conmebol. Corinthians will have until September 17 to present its defense in the disciplinary case opened after a formal complaint from the Argentine club.

Photo: Rodrigo Coca/Ag. Corinthians

The complaint was prompted by a gesture made by Memphis during the first match between the teams in La Plata. On that occasion, the player showed his middle finger to Estudiantes fans, a behavior the Argentine side described as unsportsmanlike and provocative.

The incident took place during the celebration of Corinthians’ goal. After Kaio César scored to make it 1-1 in the second half, Memphis ran to celebrate with his teammates and, while moving across the field, made the gesture toward the home crowd.

In response to the episode, Estudiantes turned to Conmebol’s disciplinary unit and requested punishment for the forward. The Argentine club argues that Memphis violated rules set out in the governing body’s Disciplinary Code.

The La Plata side cited two provisions that could result in a suspension of at least one match or for a set period. The alleged violations involve, among other points, behavior considered offensive to the dignity of players, coaching staff members, and other people, as well as gestures incompatible with proper sporting conduct.

The second charge presented by Estudiantes concerns provoking spectators. The Argentine club’s argument was based on footage of the moment when Memphis made the gesture toward the fans.

Despite the complaint, the ruling will not take place before the second meeting between the teams. Since Conmebol set September 17 as the final deadline for Corinthians’ defense, any possible punishment can only be applied afterward.

As a result, if the forward is suspended, the sanction will not affect this Wednesday’s match. If Corinthians manage to eliminate Estudiantes and advance in the competition, Memphis may have to serve any eventual suspension in the semifinal stage.

In the first match, played in Argentina, Corinthians and Estudiantes drew 1-1. Therefore, whoever wins at Neo Química Arena will secure qualification for the next round. If the second match also ends in a draw, the spot will be decided by a penalty shootout.

Check out the statement released by Corinthians about the case:

“This Thursday (10), Sport Club Corinthians Paulista received a notification from CONMEBOL regarding the complaint filed by Club Estudiantes de La Plata against player Memphis Depay.

The deadline for the defense set by CONMEBOL was September 17 — one day after the second leg of the CONMEBOL Libertadores quarterfinals. Therefore, any possible punishment from CONMEBOL would only be served after the ruling, which will take place after the defense is submitted.

Respecting the deadline set by CONMEBOL, Corinthians will present this defense to avoid any type of punishment for Memphis Depay.”

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