MADRID: Atletico Madrid captain Gabi has called on UEFA to act if there is evidence Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal bit Atletico forward Mario Mandzukic in Tuesday’s Champions League quarterfinal, first leg.
Carvajal, who could in any case be sanctioned by European soccer’s governing body over a punch he threw at Mandzukic during the same incident in the second half at the Calderon, strongly denied trying to bite the Croatia international on the arm.
Footage published on social media showed Carvajal’s mouth made contact with Mandzukic’s arm as they tangled off the ball but it was impossible to tell conclusively if he had sunk his teeth into it.
“Seeing after the match that I have been accused of biting a rival player I want to make it clear that I did not bite anyone, nor did I try to,” the Spain right back told reporters.
Speaking later to Spanish radio, Gabi said if evidence of a bite was clear UEFA should act.
“I can’t judge the incident but if UEFA study the images and see something they should take action,” Gabi said.
“They are unpleasant incidents and if the footage is so clear then perhaps the (UEFA disciplinary) committee should step in,” he added.
Real already have left back Marcelo suspended for next Wednesday’s second leg at the Bernabeu after he was booked late in the game and losing Carvajal as well would be a blow to the holders’ hopes of making the semifinals.
UEFA must act if Carvajal bite evidence conclusive: Gabi
UEFA must act if Carvajal bite evidence conclusive: Gabi
Dubai Basketball introduce 17-year-old Tomislav Vuckovic as they stay perfect in ABA League
- Winning streak now at 12-0 after the team’s 90-79 victory over Borac Mozzart at Coca-Cola Arena
DUBAI: Dubai Basketball extended their winning streak to 12-0 in the ABA League with a 90-79 victory over Borac Mozzart at Coca-Cola Arena on Monday.
The game also marked a historic moment for the club and basketball development in the UAE. Tomislav Vuckovic, 17, became the first Dubai Basketball Academy player to start for the senior team in official competition.
His inclusion represents a significant milestone in the club’s long-term vision to help young players become professionals, according to a statement from the team.
The opening quarter did not unfold in line with Dubai’s usual standards. Borac Mozzart began with confidence and tempo, capitalizing on early lapses to take a 23-19 lead after the first 10 minutes.
As the former NBA duo McKinley Wright and Dwayne Bacon orchestrated the offence, Dubai gradually took control and went into halftime with a 41-37 advantage.
Dubai’s depth played a key role as the game progressed. Contributions from newcomer Kenan Kamenjas, and Dubai veterans Nemanja Dangubic and Klemen Prepelic, helped sustain the advantage.
Borac’s efforts were largely driven by Marko Josilo and Diante Baldwin. Without consistent support, the visitors were unable to mount a comeback.
Reflecting on the performance, Dubai Basketball Head Coach Jurica Golemac said: “It was not an easy game, especially after such a tight schedule.
“We did not start well, but we found our rhythm in the second half and made the game easier. Everyone shared minutes, nobody got injured, and that is the most important thing for us.”
Dubai managed the final quarter with composure, closing out the contest without allowing the margin to come under threat. Bacon led the scoring with 15 points, while Kamenjas added 13 and seven rebounds.
The team now head into round 22 of the EuroLeague against Virtus Bologna, standing 12th in the league, one position above Dubai.
