Expert defends João Pinheiro in Santa Clara v Sporting: it was a penalty | OneFootball

The former referee Fortunato Azevedo analyzed the game between Santa Clara and Sporting (victory for the lions by 3-2 in extra time), saying that more referees like João Pinheiro are needed. According to the expert, the field judge "simply and solely adhered to the law" and that Morten Hjulmand's incident was a penalty.

"He has nothing to worry about," assured the former referee, speaking in statements on Antena 1 radio. Consequently, Fortunato Azevedo also expressed his belief that João Pinheiro has the qualities to remain in refereeing.

"He will try to do his best and his moment is very positive. We really, really need João Pinheiro," he indicated: "We need many 'Joãos' Pinheiros to help value refereeing and Portuguese football as well”, guaranteed the expert.

Regarding the penalty incident, the former referee gave his analysis. According to Fortunato Azevedo, “It was a penalty. The reckless movement of the Santa Clara player's arm hit the opponent's face”. In short, for Fortunato Azevedo, “João Pinheiro did well”.

The Sporting fan Rodrigo Roquette shares a similar view, speaking of a "clear slap". “If it were Hjulmand giving the slap, everyone would say it was a penalty,” reacted the lions' supporter, who criticized, however, the time it took for the VAR and João Pinheiro to make the decision (Learn more HERE).

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