FIFA release report into Uruguay chasing ref as star faces 15-game ban

FIFA 's report has accused Uruguay of "conduct that discredits football" after Jose Gimenez elbowed an official.

The South American nation were dumped out of the World Cup in the group stages. They needed to beat Ghana, which they did, but were relying on Portugal seeing off South Korea. The Asians produced a shock late win, which ensured their place in the last 16 thanks to their superior goal difference.

Uruguay won 2-0 courtesy of goals from Flamengo's Giorgian de Arrascaeta, but were fuming after they were denied a late penalty by referee Daniel Siebert who waved away Edinson Cavani's appeal. Upon discovering their World Cup exit, by the finest of margins, several players made their anger known.

Gimenez led the charge and could be about to feel FIFA's wrath after clashing with an official. The Atletico Madrid star could face a 15-game ban after violating articles 11 and 12 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. One of the accusations levelled at the defender related to offensive conduct and violation of the principles of fair play having "insulted a natural or legal person in any way, especially through offensive language or gestures". The document also reportedly mentioned "adopting conduct that discredits football or FIFA."

The report goes on to cite article 12 which claims Gimenez's punishment could be "at least 15 games or one period appropriate time for assaulting (elbowing, punching, kicking or biting; spitting, hitting, etc.) a match official". The Uruguayan Federation, as well as the player, have ten days to respond to the allegations.

Gimenez's frustration was clear, not only to see, but also to hear. He unleashed an X-rated rant which was caught by a nearby television camera. "They [the referees] are all a bunch of thieves these sons of b***hes," he screamed. "Yes, record me. Son of a b***h."

Suarez, who was seen in tears after his country's elimination, said: "I see a penalty for Cavani because he is cut off by the defender and he puts his body in front of him. Darwin's is very clear too. They are not excuses, but incredible penalties are being awarded in this World Cup. And there is the committee of referees and FIFA, and they have to try to explain themselves better, at least."

Uruguay had enjoyed notable success at recent World Cups. They had made it out of the groups at every tournament since 2010, where they reached the semi-finals in South Africa. Four years later they beat England as they progressed from the groups before losing out to Cheltenham.

Four years ago they knocked out Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal in the last 16 before being undone by eventual winners France in the quarter-finals.

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