FIFA charges Luis Suarez for biting in World Cup

If found guilty, FIFA rules call for a ban of at least two matches up to a maximum of 24 months

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FIFA has officially charged Uruguay's Luis Suarez for biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini in the teams' World Cup match, a process that could lead to a suspension for Uruguay's best offensive player.

FIFA announced today that its disciplinary committee has opened proceedings against Suarez, just hours after the end of yesterday's match.

If the panel finds Suarez guilty of assaulting an opponent, FIFA rules call for a ban of at least two matches up to a maximum of 24 months.

FIFA asked the team to present evidence, which can include video recordings, by 2000 GMT today.

A decision must be published before Saturday, when Uruguay plays Colombia in a round-of-16 match at Maracana stadium.

Uruguay advanced by beating Italy 1-0 yesterday in Natal. One minute before the decisive goal, Suarez clashed with Chiellini and was caught by television cameras apparently biting his shoulder.

Match referee Marco Rodriguez of Mexico appeared not to see the incident and took no action.

Brazil's World Cup has been a high-scoring tournament featuring late goals, comebacks, full stadiums and underdog stories, but the bite has got much of the global attention yesterday.