GOLAZONEWSJhon Durán Controversy Surrounds Benfica's Allianz Cup Win
- Benfica defeated Gil Vicente 4-1 in the Allianz Cup quarter-finals.
- Gil Vicente coach Luís Pinto criticized the last-minute clearing of Jhon Durán.
- Benfica manager Marco Silva defended the ruling as refereeing bodies launched an inquiry.
Benfica advanced in the Allianz Cup with a 4-1 quarter-final victory over Gil Vicente, but the result was overshadowed by the decision to lift forward Jhon Durán's suspension on the eve of the match. Gil Vicente head coach Luís Pinto expressed deep frustration, stating that overturning a ban right before kickoff calls into question the seriousness of the process. Pinto claimed the match began off the pitch and ended with the outcome officials desired.
Benfica manager Marco Silva acknowledged Pinto's anger but maintained that Benfica could not stay silent on the matter. Silva argued that competing without Durán would compromise sporting integrity.
The dispute stems from an earlier match against Santa Clara. FPF Refereeing Council president Luciano Gonçalves stated that referee Cláudio Pereira could have explained his actions better, confirming that the Disciplinary Committee will question Pereira regarding his officiating during that fixture.