Peñarol to Host San Antonio Bulo Bulo Behind Closed Doors at Estadio Campeón del Siglo
Peñarol will play a crucial Copa Libertadores group stage match against San Antonio Bulo Bulo on Tuesday night, but without the backing of their fans at Estadio Campeón del Siglo. As reported by Referí, the Uruguayan club is serving a punishment from CONMEBOL that bans spectators for their three home fixtures in the group phase.
The sanctions stem from several incidents during last year’s semifinal clash against Botafogo at Estadio Centenario, where fireworks, violence, and racist acts were reported. CONMEBOL handed down a $278,000 fine and ordered the team to play behind closed doors as a result of repeated offenses. Peñarol had already been warned and fined $200,000 for similar pyrotechnic use during their quarterfinal against Flamengo.
Despite hiring a top sports law firm in Spain and appealing the decision, the club's efforts were dismissed by both CONMEBOL and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Peñarol is still awaiting a final ruling but hopes to have fan attendance reinstated for their final home match against Vélez Sarsfield.
Coach Diego Aguirre will now face the challenge of motivating his squad without the presence of their passionate supporters. Kickoff is set for 9:00 p.m. local time, as Peñarol seeks three critical points in Group H, which also includes Olimpia and Vélez.
Facundo Trotta Arrieta
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