Expert baffled by João Pinheiro criticism: it was a penalty | OneFootball

Former referee Fortunato Azevedo analyzed the match between Santa Clara and Sporting (Sporting’s 3-2 win after extra time), saying that more referees like João Pinheiro are needed. According to the expert, the referee on the field “simply and solely did his job by following the rules,” and that the incident with Morten Hjulmand was indeed a penalty.

“He has nothing to worry about,” assured the former referee, speaking in an interview with Antena 1 radio. Furthermore, Fortunato Azevedo also expressed his belief that João Pinheiro has the qualities to remain in refereeing.

“He will try to do his best and he is in a very positive moment. We really, really need João Pinheiro,” he stated: “We need many ‘Joãos’ Pinheiros to help enhance refereeing and also Portuguese football,” the expert guaranteed.

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 struck the opponent’s face.” In short, for Fortunato Azevedo, “João Pinheiro did well.”

Sporting fan Rodrigo Roquette shares a similar opinion, calling it a “clear slap.” “If it had been Hjulmand delivering the slap, everyone would say it was a penalty,” reacted the Sporting supporter, who nevertheless criticized the amount of time VAR and João Pinheiro took to make the decision (Find out more HERE).

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