Dida ban reduced to one game

AC Milan goalkeeper Dida has had his ban following the Champions League game with Celtic in Glasgow reduced by UEFA to one match.

The Brazilian was initially handed a two-match suspension after his theatrics following a Celtic fan's encroachment onto the pitch during the 2-1 defeat at Celtic Park.

But the club confirmed that penalty has been reduced, meaning Dida will miss only Wednesday's game against Shakhtar Donetsk.

A statement on Milan's official website, www.acmilan.com, read: "UEFA have partially accepted Milan's appeal by reducing from two to one the match ban given to Nelson Dida following the episodes in Glasgow.

"The Rossoneri goalkeeper will not be available for Wednesday's game at the San Siro against Shakhtar Donetsk but he will be available to play in Donetsk on November 6."

The incident came after Celtic had scored what proved to be the winning goal in the October 3 fixture.

The 34-year-old initially pursued a fan who had invaded the playing area and made light contact with him but then collapsed dramatically and was substituted by Milan.

Dida was charged under regulations that stipulate "member associations, clubs, as well as their players, officials and members, shall conduct themselves according to the principles of loyalty, integrity and sportsmanship".

Celtic were fined £25,000 (€35,900), half of which was suspended, for the misbehaviour by the fan, who was subsequently banned for life by the club.

Milan face Group D leaders Shakhtar on Wednesday having taken three points from their opening two Champions League games.