Melgar lost 2-1 in their visit to Atlético Grau for the previous round of the local championship, a defeat that left them without a chance to win the title automatically and now without part of Pablo Lavallén's coaching staff after the sanction imposed by the Disciplinary Committee of the Peruvian Football Federation (CD-FPF).
At the end of the game that Dominó lost against Patrimonio, the assistants of the Argentine coach entered the field to confront referee Michael Espinoza for his performance. This action sparked a brawl that will cost those involved dearly, as it was decided to apply a two-match ban.
According to the CD-FPF ruling, "a two-match suspension and prohibition of access to stadiums" is imposed on Osvaldo Javier Sodero, Ornaldo Javier Claut, and Martín Vallejos, members of Lavallén's coaching staff. The same punishment received Melgar's administrator, Ricardo Bettocchi.
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This measure, which may be modified in a final resolution, temporarily leaves the rojinegro coach without three of his assistants for round 19 of the Torneo Clausura, as well as the first leg in the semifinals or a potential final in case of direct qualification for the title match of Liga 1 2022.
What does Melgar need to reach the final of Liga 1?
To be a finalist in Liga 1 2022, Melgar (who already has a secure place in the playoffs as the winner of the Torneo Apertura) must finish first or second in the accumulated standings, positions currently occupied by Sporting Cristal and Alianza Lima. A victory in their last match, plus a defeat or draw by any of the other two clubs, guarantees direct qualification to the final.
When does Melgar play?
The Dominó's last match in the Torneo Clausura will be against Alianza Atlético at the Estadio Monumental de la UNSA. The match will be played on Sunday, October 30, at 3:00 p.m., simultaneously with the matches Cristal vs. Mannucci and Alianza vs. ADT.