Estudiantes president Juan Sebastián Verón has been handed a six-month suspension by the Argentina Football Association after he refused to form a guard of honour for newly crowned champions Rosario Central. The incident took place before Sunday’s Clausura last-16 match, which Estudiantes went on to win 1-0.
Players Turn Backs in Protest
The protest came after Rosario were declared League Champions due to a recent rule change introduced by the AFA. Estudiantes players turned their backs as Rosario walked onto the pitch, making their disapproval clear. The AFA said players involved in the “reprehensible conduct” would receive two-match bans next season.
Controversy Over Rule Change
Argentina’s top division is split into Apertura and Clausura tournaments. This season, Ángel Di María’s Rosario finished the combined league phase with 66 points, four ahead of Boca Juniors. Under the old rule, this only secured a Copa Libertadores spot. The new regulation, however, awarded Rosario the league title – a decision that stunned several clubs.
Knockout Stage Continues Despite Dispute
Each tournament moves into play-offs after 16 games, with Platense winning the Apertura. Estudiantes now face Central Córdoba in the Clausura quarter-finals on Saturday. At the end of the season, Apertura winners Platense will meet the Clausura champions in the Champions Trophy match.
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