Uefa charge against unsporting Adriano

Uefa last night started disciplinary action against Shakhtar Donetsk striker Luiz Adriano following his controversial Champions League goal against Nordsjaelland on Tuesday night.

The Brazilian forward outraged the Danish side when he went against conventional protocol by scoring when team-mate Willian was attempting to give the hosts possession following a break for injury.

Instead of allowing the ball to continue to the Nordsjaelland goalkeeper, Adriano took possession, rounded him and slotted into the empty net.

Further confusion then came when it appeared the Ukrainian side would let a goal be scored to cancel out Adriano’s effort, only for midfielder Taras Stepanenko to step in and make a challenge.

Uefa last night released a statement that read: “Uefa has opened disciplinary proceedings against FC Shakhtar Donetsk player Luiz Adriano following last night’s Uefa Champions League group stage match against FC Nordsjaelland in Copenhagen.

“Luiz Adriano faces charges for violation of the principles of conduct [Article 5, UEFA Disciplinary Regulations], and his case will be heard by the Uefa Control and Disciplinary Body on Tuesday, November 27.”

Article 5 of the European governing body’s code dictates that: “Member associations, clubs, as well as their players, officials and members shall conduct themselves according to the principles of loyalty, integrity and sportsmanship.”