Benfica midfielder Augustin Binya has been banned for six Uefa matches following his dangerous challenge on Celtic’s Scott Brown.
The Cameroon international was sent off late in his side’s 1-0 Champions League defeat in Glasgow.
Scotland international Brown avoided injury but was angry with Binya, who later issued an apology.
Benfica look sure to appeal against the decision from Uefa’s control and disciplinary body.
In a statement on uefa.com, Binya’s challenge was described as one which « seriously endangered the physical health of the opposing player ».
But the Portuguese team’s communications chief Ricardo Maia told his club’s website: « This penalty is tough and disproportionate, taking into account the behaviour of the player during and after the game.
« Binya did not argue with the referee, he was worried about the physical condition of his professional colleague, and later apologised publicly. »
If the anticipated appeal is unsuccessful, Binya will miss Benfica’s remaining Champions League Group D matches against AC Milan and Shakhtar Donetsk.
Benfica will then have to cope without Binya for their next four matches in Europe.
The ban will carry over to future seasons if Benfica finish bottom of Group D and bow out for this campaign.
BBC
