Erick Pulgar is unanimously acquitted by the STJD and reinforces Flamengo in the decisive stretch of the season.
Midfielder Erick Pulgar, a key piece in Flamengo‘s tactical setup, received excellent news this Thursday (15). The STJD judged and unanimously rejected the complaint filed by the Prosecutor’s Office against the Chilean player.
The initial accusation dealt with an alleged violent challenge during a ball dispute in the derby against Fluminense. With the decision of the Fourth Disciplinary Commission, the midfielder avoids a suspension that could have reached up to six matches in the Brazilian Serie A.
The controversy began last Sunday (11), during the derby played at the Maracanã stadium. On that occasion, a challenge between Pulgar and forward Rodrigo Castillo sparked strong complaints from the Tricolor side, which demanded the immediate expulsion of the Rubro-Negro player.
Although the on-field referee only showed a yellow card and the VAR upheld the decision, the opponent’s board took the case to sports tribunals. At the same time, the rival club’s president was also facing an investigation for severe criticism of the refereeing, and was likewise acquitted by a majority vote.
Peace of mind for the continental and national run
While the auditors analyzed the case in Rio de Janeiro, Pulgar was already on Argentine soil with the Flamengo delegation. The midfielder is fully available for tonight’s clash against Estudiantes, valid for the first leg of the Copa Libertadores semifinals.
The coaching staff led by Leonardo Jardim needed good news for the midfield sector. With important absences due to suspension and injury, keeping the player brings tactical stability to the squad.
Sports legal experts evaluate the outcome of the first-instance trial:
The acquittal corroborates the interpretation that it was merely a normal match challenge, maintaining the sporting integrity of the championship without external interference.
With a clean disciplinary record on the national stage, Flamengo now focuses its energy on the pursuit of the South American title and maintaining the top spot in the Brazilian tournament standings. After the international commitment in La Plata, the Rio de Janeiro squad returns home to face Bahia this coming Sunday (18), ahead of the decisive return leg against the Argentines at the Maracanã.
