Sunday’s Palmeiras versus Vasco clash was an absolute firestorm, especially when referee Anderson Daronco missed what looked like a clear penalty for Vasco at Nubank Parque, leaving everyone scratching their heads and Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira ready to throw down in the post-game.
Daronco’s Call That Lit the Fuse
The controversy exploded in the second half. Vasco was pushing, Thiago Mendes launched a long ball, and Lescano tried to control it. That is when Barboza, already deep inside the penalty area, blocked the ball with his right arm. It looked like a stonewall penalty, right? But Daronco, the man with the whistle, explained that the Argentine defender’s arm was close to his body. And get this: VAR did not even ask him to review it on the monitor. Seriously? The protests from Vasco were strong, and honestly, who could blame them? It felt like a game-changer just vanished into thin air.
Abel Ferreira’s Mic Drop Moment
So, after all that drama, what did Abel Ferreira have to say about Daronco’s decision? Not much, initially. When he got asked about the non-call, the Palmeiras coach kept it brief and then, boom, flipped the script completely. Instead of talking about Barboza’s handball, Abel pointed to another potential foul: an alleged blow by Lescano on Lucas Evangelista, an arm right to the face. He did not mince words either.
“I have nothing to say about that. I understand your question. Just as you’re asking that question, let me ask about Lucas (Evangelista), who took an arm to the face. I’ll leave it to you (the press) to create content. You really need clicks and content. I think those are two good incidents for you to create content about.”
Talk about turning the tables! He called out the press for needing clicks while giving them two fresh controversies to chew on. It was a masterclass in deflection, or maybe just pure frustration boiling over. Either way, he left the reporters with plenty to talk about besides *his* team’s controversial non-penalty.
This rivalry is far from over. The return leg between Vasco and Palmeiras is set for next Sunday at São Januário. Vasco needs to win by two goals just to advance in regulation time. A one-goal win sends them to a penalty shootout. Palmeiras, on the other hand, only needs a draw to move on. You know everyone will be watching that match, especially for any Daronco-esque decisions!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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