Supporters Criticize Manager for Kicking Rival Player in Argentina Football Match
During a top division match between Gimnasia and Estudiantes, a bizarre incident occurred that led to the manager of Gimnasia, Sebastian Ariel Romero, being sent off for kicking a rival player. The incident took place when the hosts were trailing 1-0 after 29 minutes. Leonardo Godoy slid in to keep a ball in play right in front of the dugout, but Romero decided to get involved and swung his leg in the direction of the player. The manager, nicknamed Chirola, caught the Estudiantes star on the hand, narrowly missing his head.
Following the incident, a debate between officials, players, and coaches erupted before the referee decided to give Romero a red card. Fans have criticized Romero for his actions, with one saying that “he kicked him when he was on the floor. It’s assault.” Another called him a “clown,” while a third sarcastically joked that “he won the ball.”
Despite Romero’s absence from the touchline, Gimnasia upped their performance and overturned the deficit to win 2-1. Their victory came via an 86th-minute penalty, and amid celebrations of the goal, Romero briefly appeared on the pitch before sprinting back to his new seat away from the dugout.
Romero was capped once by the Argentinean national team during his playing career. He predominantly featured in his homeland but had spells in Europe for the likes of Real Betis and Toulouse.
In conclusion, Romero’s actions have been heavily criticized by fans, and his behavior was deemed unacceptable on the football pitch. While Gimnasia managed to secure a victory without their manager on the touchline, it is important to remember that violence has no place in sports and should be condemned at all times.