Palmeiras secured a 1-0 win over São Paulo at Arena Barueri this Sunday, but the match was filled with controversy. Abel Ferreira, head coach of Palmeiras, was expelled in the second half by referee Rafael Rodrigo Klein after protesting a missed yellow card on a foul involving Estêvão.
Confusion over concussion rule and substitutions
The game took a dramatic turn when São Paulo’s left-back Wendell suffered a head injury after colliding with goalkeeper Rafael. He was substituted in the 25th minute for Enzo Díaz. According to Abel Ferreira’s assistant, João Martins, the team was told at halftime that the substitution was due to concussion, which would allow a sixth substitution under the rules.
“We planned six substitutions because we were informed Wendell left with a concussion. The fourth official told us so. But at the start of the second half, the referee seemed unaware. The fourth official appeared confused, then said São Paulo didn’t submit the paper, then changed the story again,” said Martins.
Abel Ferreira protests inconsistent refereeing
Abel Ferreira was shown a red card for his protest over a foul where Alan Franco allegedly grabbed Estêvão’s foot without being booked. The Palmeiras bench felt the call was inconsistent and that such uneven decisions were mentally draining for players and staff.
“We just want rules to be respected,” added Martins. “Today it was a mess. We plan at halftime based on one version of the rule, then it changes in the second half.”
Abel Ferreira to miss next game
Due to the red card, Abel Ferreira will miss Palmeiras’ next match against Red Bull Bragantino on Sunday at 18:30 (Brasília time) in the ninth round of the Campeonato Brasileiro.
Abel Ferreira remains central to Palmeiras’ strategy, and his absence from the sidelines will be significant as they continue their league campaign.
