UEFA opens disciplinary proceedings against Chelsea's Pedro Neto: Here's why
What's the story
European football governing body UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Chelsea winger Pedro Neto. This comes after an incident where Neto pushed over a ball boy during the UEFA Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The incident took place in stoppage time of Wednesday's last-16 first leg at Parc des Princes, which Chelsea lost 2-5.
On-field clash
UEFA launches proceedings against Neto
The incident, which saw the 26-year-old Portugal international shove the ball boy off a chair, led to an on-field altercation between players from both teams. UEFA has now launched proceedings against Neto for "unsporting behavior" under its disciplinary regulations. The governing body said its disciplinary bodies will make a decision on this case in due course.
Apology issued
Neto apologizes for his actions
Following the match, Neto apologized for his actions and blamed it on being caught up "in the emotion of the game." He was trying to retrieve the ball quickly when he pushed the boy. Neto told TNT Sports after the incident that he was not like this, that it was in the heat of the moment and that he wanted to apologize.
Aftermath details
Neto says he apologized 35 times
Neto further revealed that he had apologized "35 times" after the incident. His teammate Vitinha translated his apology as his French wasn't very good. "At the end he laughed and I gave him my shirt and said sorry about 35 times," Neto said. "He could see what had happened and was happy with the situation."
Club response
Liam Rosenior issues apology on behalf of Chelsea
Chelsea's head coach Liam Rosenior also apologized on behalf of the club. He said, "If there was anything from our side that was wrong or out of order, I apologize on behalf of the club." The incident has raised concerns over potential disciplinary action against Neto. The winger has scored 10 goals in 42 appearances for Chelsea this season and could be suspended for Tuesday's second leg match against PSG.
Match
Champions League, PSG hammer Chelsea in R16 1st leg
PSG thrashed Chelsea 5-2 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash. The match was played at Parc des Princes, Paris. Chelsea's goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen made a costly error that led to PSG's late surge, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia scoring twice in the closing minutes. Despite a strong performance from Chelsea for much of the game, they couldn't overcome PSG's potent attack.