Palmeiras: Abel Ferreira is punished by Conmebol after obscene gesture

Coach Abel Ferreira was fined US$15,000 by Conmebol (around R$84,000 at current prices) due to an obscene gesture during Palmeiras' 2-0 victory over Sporting Cristal, in Peru, in the group stage of the Copa Libertadores da América.

The match was played on May 5 and ended with goals from Flaco López and Ramón Sosa. Despite the positive result, the Portuguese coach's performance ended up being targeted by the South American entity after images showed a gesture considered obscene during the confrontation.

In the decision released by the Conmebol Disciplinary Committee, Abel was included in article 11.2, paragraphs "b" and "c", of the entity's Disciplinary Code. In addition to the financial fine, the coach received a formal warning in case of recurrence.

According to the document, the amount will be automatically deducted from the revenue that Palmeiras has to receive for television rights and sponsorship of the competition.

Conmebol also informed that Abel Ferreira will be able to appeal the decision within seven calendar days after the official notification.

After the match, the coach explained the episode at a press conference and stated that the gesture was directed at striker Flaco López during a charge regarding positioning on the field.

"He's the player I think about the most. Even today, when you saw him, I made a gesture towards him. I demand a lot from him. He knows where he has to be", said Abel.

The coach also highlighted that he constantly talks to the attacker and believes in the player's potential to become a high-level center forward.

"He has everything to be a top center forward in the world, but at Palmeiras. I treat him like a son, I demand a lot from him", added the coach.

Leila Pereira is direct about Abel's possible departure from Palmeiras

Source: CNN