ATK fined for ISL semi-final fracas, Belencoso banned for two matches

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) disciplinary committee on Saturday fined Indian Super League (ISL) franchise Atletico de Kolkata (ATK) Rs 7 lakh in two separate incidents of 'team misconduct for the post match brawl that broke out at the Mumbai Football Arena in the second semi-final against Mumbai City FC on Tuesday.

ATK's Spanish striker Juan Belencoso, who hit Mumbai's Leo Costa to start off the fracas was suspended for two matches according to AIFF Disciplinary Code Article 53A and 53B.

Belencoso, if retained, will miss ATK's opening game in the next season. He was also fined Rs 3 lakh.

The amount needs to be deposited with AIFF within 10 days.

The statement from ISL also said the AIFF disciplinary committee is reviewing the charges against Mumbai City FC.

The match took an ugly turn after the final whistle following an altercation between Belencoso and Costa.

Brazil's Leo Costa clipped Belencoso with the latter then having a go at the midfielder with his head, prompting angry reactions from both sides.

Several players got involved in separate arguments. Thiago Cunha, in a worst of all reactions, jumped with both feet off the ground and attempted a kung-fu kick at Belencoso.

Kolkata players and backroom staff members chased him as he tried to escape the backlash, capping off a scarcely-believable scene in Andheri.

--IANS

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