Corinthians executive criticises officiating, says legal action considered over alleged threats to players | OneFootball

Corinthians lost 2-0 to Internacional in Porto Alegre, after which executive Marcelo Paz raised concerns about referee Alex Gomes Stefano and VAR official Caio Max Augusto Vieira. According to Meu Timao, he said the club feels harmed and that its legal department is studying a representation over what he called a threatening tone towards their players.

Paz argued the match management was poor, noting only 49 minutes of ball in play when 60 are recommended, seven bookings for Corinthians and a penalty he believes was denied for Matheus Bidu. The club later posted the Bidu incident on social media, criticising the officiating.

He said intimidation of players has become constant. Rodrigo Garro complained he was disrespected by the referee, and Hugo Souza alleged a similar episode involving Matheuzinho shortly before Garro spoke.

Paz also cited Stefano’s midweek display in Palmeiras v Vitória, when two Vitória players were sent off within three minutes and there was criticism after a Palmeiras elbow did not bring a red card. He questioned the appointment to a decisive tie and said players felt prevented from speaking on and off the pitch, with interviews leading to sanctions. He added his comments did not seek to excuse the result and urged the CBF to review the matter.

Corinthians must win by three or more goals at Neo Química Arena to reach the Copa do Brasil quarter-finals in normal time. A two-goal win would send it to penalties, since away goals do not apply, and any other result puts Internacional through. The return is on Thursday, 6, at 19:30.

Source: Meu Timao