A friendly match between Benfica and Fortuna Düsseldorf was abandoned in the 39th minute on Saturday when the referee was knocked to the ground shortly after sending off a player.
Television footage showed Benfica captain Luisao protesting referee Christian Fischer's decision to eject teammate Javi Garcia. Brazilian international Luisao then appeared to shove Fischer.
Luisao approached the referee in a menacing manner and sent him falling backwards, where he lay for several seconds apparently unconscious before coming back to his senses after players and linesmen called for a doctor.
Fortuna returned to play a further 45 minutes without their Portuguese opponents, splitting their squad into two sides of 11 men to ensure the fans at the Düsseldorf Arena were given some value for their money.
Speaking to Rheinische Post, Fortuna's chairman Peter Frymuth explained: "The ref was attacked and had to be treated by our doctors inside the locker room. Because of that attack the game was abandoned. I am shocked. I have been in football for many years and have never seen anything like it. I do not understand that players from a team with the reputation of Benfica, a team that play in the Champions League, have such an attitude. Let's get help from the German federation and talk with UEFA about Luisao and about what other Benfica players did. I hope they are severely punished. This should have been a day of celebration for us, but now it has becoming a depressing affair. We are sick at heart." Frymuth added that Fortuna Dusseldorf would approach UEFA over the event.
Benfica have stated on their official website that the match had been abandoned due to a "regrettable theatre" by the German referee. Portuguese newspapers are fearing Luisao's suspension by UEFA for two months.
Benfica have stated on their official website that the match had been abandoned due to a "regrettable theatre" by the German referee. Portuguese newspapers are fearing Luisao's suspension by UEFA for two months.
Christian Fischer, a 2nd Bundesliga referee from Hemer who normally accompanies Thorsten Kinhöfer as assistant referee in Bundesliga, has officially informed against Luisao in the meantime.
sources: RP, FOX, ESPN
