UEFA have started disciplinary action against Shakhtar Donetsk striker Luiz Adriano following his controversial Champions League goal against FC Nordsjaelland on Tuesday.

The Brazilian forward outraged the Danish side when he went against conventional protocol by scoring when team-mate Willian was attempting to give the hosts possession following a break for injury.

Instead of allowing the ball to continue to the FC Nordsjaelland goalkeeper, Adriano took possession, rounded him and slotted into the empty net.

Further confusion on the pitch followed when it appeared the Ukrainian side would let a goal be scored at their end to cancel out Adriano’s effort only for Taras Stepanenko to step in and make a challenge.

Article 5 of the European governing body’s code dictates that: “Member associations, clubs, as well as their players, officials and members shall conduct themselves according to the principles of loyalty, integrity and sportsmanship.”

Shakhtar coach Mircea Lucescu apologised for the goal, which came in the 26th minute when FC Nordsjaelland were leading 1-0.

Shakhtar would go on to win the game 5-2 and book their place in the knock-out stages of the Champions League, with Adriano finishing the match with a hat-trick.

Nordsjaelland, meanwhile, have just one point from their five Group E games and are out of European competition.