Three-match UEFA ban for Mourinho

UEFA yesterday handed a three-match ban to Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho after he made allegations of favouritism towards bitter rivals and Champions League conquerors Barcelona.

Mourinho, already banned from the touchline for Tuesday’s semi-final second leg at Camp Nou, which cemented Real’s exit 3-1 on aggregate, will have a further one-match ban suspended for three years.

UEFA’s Control and Disciplinary Body found that a string of comments from Mourinho alleging that Barcelona benefited from decisions in their favour at their rivals’ expense had constituted “inappropriate statements”.

The flamboyant Portuguese coach, who had been hoping to become the first man ever to coach three teams to the European Cup after previous successes with Porto and Inter, was also fined €50,000.

Real defender Pepe, who was red-carded in the first leg, received a one-match ban but UEFA said it would consider this already served as he did not feature in the return leg.

Real furthermore received a €20,000 fine for poor conduct by their supporters.

Barcelona reserve goalkeeper Jose Pinto, red-carded in a half-time melee in the first leg, received a three-match ban.

It means he cannot take part in the Champions League final on 28 May against Manchester United, nor the first UEFA club competition match that Barca play next season.

Both clubs may appeal their punishments within three days and Real said they would do so.