The News
Friday 29 of March 2024

Mexico Coach Accuses Uruguay Player of Post-Match Attack


Mexican manager Juan Carlos Osorio accused Uruguay players of intimidating referee off the field after Copa loss,photo: Notimex/Isaias Hernandez
Mexican manager Juan Carlos Osorio accused Uruguay players of intimidating referee off the field after Copa loss,photo: Notimex/Isaias Hernandez
Uruguay, who have won this tournament more than any other country, are well known as one of the toughest and most temperamental sides in Latin America

Uruguay defender José María Giménez could face disciplinary action after he was accused of insulting Mexico coach Juan Carlos Osorio after a 3-1 defeat by the Mexicans in their opening game of the Copa America.

In a bad-tempered encounter in Phoenix on Sunday, Uruguay had a man sent off in the first half and conceded two goals in the last nine minutes.

The incensed Uruguayans surrounded the referee after the game and, according to Osorio, Giménez made his feelings known to him as he left the field.

“This behavior should not be accepted from a professional footballer,” the coach said.

Jun 5, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera (1) is held back as he confronts referee Enrique Caceres after the second half against Mexico during the group play stage of the 2016 Copa America Centenario at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mexico won the match 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera (1) is held back as he confronts referee Enrique Caceres after the second half against Mexico during the 2016 Copa America Centenario at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mexico won the match 3-1. Photo: Joe Camporeale/USA TODAY Sports

“It is impetuous, inappropriate behavior from a professional who not only plays in one of the best teams in the world — Atletico Madrid — but also in one of the best national teams in the world.

“I would like to say to José María Giménez that any coach has the right to direct the play onto the weaker foot of any player in the world.”

Organisers have yet to say whether they will launch a formal investigation into Osorio’s allegations.

Uruguay, who have won this tournament more than any other country, are well known as one of the toughest and most temperamental sides in Latin America.

They had Matias Vecino sent off just before halftime and three other players were booked. Mexico also had a player booked and another sent off.

The result leaves Mexico top of Group C, ahead of Venezuela, who beat Jamaica 1-0 earlier in the night, on goal difference. Uruguay face Venezuela on Thursday while Mexico play Jamaica the same day.