Alessandro Bastoni Faces Disciplinary Fallout After Champions League Red Card
Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni received two yellow cards during a Champions League fixture, compounding a difficult stretch that has drawn scrutiny from Italian sports media. The Sports Gazette reported that the center-back’s recent run of form includes a lack of composure and discipline issues on the pitch. The second booking occurred when Bastoni put his hands in the face of Shakhtar Donetsk player Ocheretko to push him away while already on a yellow card, an incident Eurosport and Corriere dello Sport described as a major tactical naivety.
Match Officials and Disputed Incidents Under Review
German referee Harm Osmers faced criticism in the Italian press for his handling of the match. Corriere dello Sport rated the referee’s performance at 4.5, highlighting a missed penalty appeal for Inter early in the first half when Ocheretko pushed Bastoni during a header, causing the Shakhtar player’s arms to move away from his body in an unnatural position to block the ball. The same outlet noted that Bastoni’s first yellow card was particularly harsh, as he was the only player penalized during a confrontation with Elias.
Impact on Cristian Chivu and Inter Squad Depth
The resulting suspension rules Bastoni out of Inter’s upcoming Champions League fixture against Feyenoord. Sportmediaset reported that manager Cristian Chivu must manage defensive absences without Bastoni, while John Stones works toward a potential return for the derby three days prior, and Benjamin Pavard remains sidelined until the Como match. Chivu addressed the incident post-match, stating that while Bastoni was provoked by opponents, the reaction itself constituted an avoidable mistake.
Which Outlets Reported on Alessandro Bastoni's Red Card?
Which Italian sports outlets reported on Alessandro Bastoni’s red card?
La Gazzetta dello Sport, Corriere dello Sport, Sportmediaset, and Eurosport covered the disciplinary incident and subsequent reactions.
Who is Inter’s manager dealing with the defensive absences?
Cristian Chivu manages the squad through the suspension and injuries affecting defensive rotation.
Which upcoming Champions League opponent will miss Alessandro Bastoni?
Bastoni will serve a suspension and miss Inter’s match against Feyenoord.