Dida appeal partially upheld
Monday, October 22, 2007
Article summary
AC Milan goalkeeper Dida is suspended for two games, with one deferred for a probationary period.
Article body
UEFA's Appeals Body has partially upheld the appeal lodged by AC Milan against the two-match ban given to Milan goalkeeper Dida last week in the wake of events at the UEFA Champions League Group D game between Celtic FC and the Rossoneri in Glasgow on 3 October.
Probationary period
Following Monday's appeals hearing, Dida is suspended for two matches, but one of the games will be deferred for a probationary period of one year. Dida misses Milan's Group D home fixture against FC Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday.
Principles of conduct
Brazilian international Dida, 34, was banned for two matches by the UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body after the instigation of proceedings on the basis of Article 5, paragraph 1 of the UEFA disciplinary regulations (Principles of conduct) – under which "member associations, clubs, as well as their players, officials and members, shall conduct themselves according to the principles of loyalty, integrity and sportsmanship".
On best behaviour
However, the Appeals Body has ruled that one game of the two-match punishment will be deferred for a one-year period until 21 October 2008. Therefore Dida will only serve the second part of his suspension if he commits a similar offence between now and then. The Appeals Body took note that Dida expressed his sincere regrets as regards his conduct.
