Douglas Costa risks ban

Douglas Costa

Juventus winger Douglas Costa risks at least a three-match ban, possibly closer to five, after spitting at a Sassuolo player.

The Brazilian was a substitute in Sunday’s 2-1 win over Sassuolo at the Juventus Stadium.

There was a tussle with Federico Di Francesco (the son of Roma Coach Eusebio) in the build-up to the Sassuolo consolation goal in the final minutes.

First he seemed to lash out an elbow, then attempted a headbutt.

READ ALSO Dalung mourns Rev. Moses Iloh

The pair continued arguing until Douglas Costa spat at Di Francesco from point-blank range.

It was caught on camera and the VAR officials in the booth immediately alerted the referee, who sent him off.

There is no mandatory ban in Serie A for a straight red or for spitting, but there are some precedents.

This type of incident tends to warrant a three-match ban.

Douglas Costa could well be worse off because there was also the elbow and headbutt to take into account.

Breaking news & top stories

Stay connected with The Sun Newspaper

Get breaking news, exclusive stories, and live updates delivered straight to your phone. Join thousands of readers already following us on Whatsapp Channel and Telegram.

Breaking news & top stories

Follow The Sun Newspaper

Get live updates & exclusive stories delivered straight to your phone.