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No doubt that Felipe Melo was one of the most controversial players in the match between River Plate vs Fluminense, for the fifth round of the 2023 Copa Libertadores. The Brazilian defender had a questionable attitude towards the 'Millonarios', to the point that the City Police executed a complaint against him for inciting violence at the Monumental Stadium in Núñez. However, this would not be the only problem for the 'Flu' player, as Conmebol, the organizer of the continental tournament, is also seriously considering the option of opening a disciplinary case against him.
Waiting for the referee's report and the observers in the Argentine venue, the Disciplinary Unit of Conmebol is studying the situation, based on the Disciplinary Code and the tournament regulations. However, it will all depend on what Wilmar Roldán's report and the match delegate indicate, to take action against the South American center.
Felipe Melo highlighted in a press conference that "it is special to play against Boca" and "against River it doesn't matter". Thus, since the "little chicken" of Tevez that he did in the pre-competitive training sessions, it was a preview of what was going to happen during the match, which he played with great vehemence and was reflected in an unrestrained shout in the face of Nico de La Cruz after winning a throw-in.
However, the River players chose not to enter into friction and disputes, but it was Miguel Borja who lost his temper: he celebrated the second goal in the face of the Brazilian. Similarly, Nacho Fernández said that some players from the visiting team "disrespected and it is not good".
What could be Felipe Melo's sanction?
On this occasion, Felipe Melo's reprehensible and questionable attitude took place on the field of play. For this reason, Conmebol, with known precedents of sanctions for cases of racism and discrimination, is considering intervening and issuing a sanction against the Brazilian.
Even, if the investigations progress, both the player and Fluminense will be informed, having the possibility to present their defense and then the Disciplinary Unit will determine whether or not to impose a sanction, which could range from a fine to suspension for several matches in the continental tournament.
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