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Rivaldo could face suspension for cheating
Brazil's Rivaldo could be suspended after FIFA announced it was investigating whether the star midfielder faked injury during his side's 2-1 win over Turkey.
- Indo-Asian News Service
- Updated: February 25, 2007 08:27 AM IST
Read Time:2 min
Seoul, South Korea:
Brazil's Rivaldo could be suspended after FIFA announced it was investigating whether the star midfielder faked injury during his side's 2-1 win over Turkey. FIFA said a decision would be taken after a meeting of its disciplinary committee. In injury time at the end of Monday's Group C opener, Turkey's Hakan Unsal kicked the ball at Rivaldo, after the referee had awarded the Brazilians a corner kick. Rivaldo, who three minutes before had scored Brazil's second goal, went down clutching his head and the referee sent the Turk off. Rivaldo quickly got up and continued playing. Later television replays suggested the ball had struck the Brazilian player on the thigh. FIFA spokesman Keith Cooper told a news conference the organization's disciplinary committee would study the incident closely. "We have gone into this World Cup making clear there would be a clamp down on simulation, that's FIFA speak for cheating. And if the disciplinary authorities think there is sufficient cause to take a second look at a particular incident they may do so," Cooper said. Cooper, who confirmed that the Turkish player's red card was not under review, would not specify what sanction Rivaldo could face. Were FIFA to suspend Rivaldo it would be the strongest indication yet of the organization's determination to tackle cheating in the game. Before the tournament, FIFA said it would take a harsh stance against players who dive to win their teams penalty or free kicks and those who fake injury. If Rivaldo is suspended for a game, he would miss his side's June 8 clash with China. (AP)Topics mentioned in this article
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