Turkish Super Lig side Adana Demirspor staged a dramatic protest on Sunday, walking off the pitch just 30 minutes into their match against Galatasaray. The decision came after a controversial penalty was awarded to Galatasaray, with Adana Demirspor president Murat Sancak citing unfair treatment towards smaller clubs as the reason for the protest.
Adana Demirspor, who are currently bottom of the Super Lig standings, were trailing 1-0 after Alvaro Morata converted a penalty in the 12th minute. The penalty decision was contentious, with replays suggesting that Galatasaray’s Dries Mertens had dived to win the spot-kick.
Adana Demirspor players and management were reportedly frustrated by several other refereeing decisions during the match, culminating in their decision to walk off the pitch in protest.
Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk acknowledged the controversial nature of the penalty decision and expressed his disappointment at the outcome of the match.
“If a referee mistake was made, it will be evaluated,” Buruk said. “In my opinion, it was a position closer to not being a penalty.”
He also highlighted the negative impact this incident could have on the image of Turkish football.
“This is a great harm done to Turkish football,” Buruk said. “I am saddened for Turkish soccer. There is always an effort to make Turkish soccer look bad to the outside world.”
The Turkish Football Federation is expected to rule on the case in the coming days. Adana Demirspor could face a forfeit and further sanctions for their actions.
This incident has sparked debate about the standard of refereeing in Turkish football and the treatment of smaller clubs. It remains to be seen what action the Turkish Football Federation will take and what the long-term implications of this protest will be.
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