July 1 – Media officers, however strong their allegiance to their country, are not supposed to get involved in any heated incidents.
But in an embarrassing rebuke for the host nation, Brazil’s communications director, who deals on a day to day basis with scores of reporters eagerly looking for stories and quotes, has found himself suspended from all duties when the host nation meets Colombia in the quarterfinals on Friday.
Paiva was bizarrely shown a red card by English referee Howard Webb after a half-time incident during last Saturday’s dramatic second round victory over Chile.
A scuffle broke out as the teams headed to the dressing room, sparked by Brazil striker Fred slapping Chile striker Gary Medel on the back of the head as they walked off the pitch.
Paiva is reported to have clashed with Chilean substitute Mauricio Pinilla but said later: “I defended myself when he came near me. I reacted by shoving him.”
A FIFA spokesperson confirmed that its disciplinary committee had opened proceedings into the incident.
After the match Brazilian coach Filipe Scolari complained about the pressure exerted by the Chilean bench on the fourth official. FIFA’s disciplinary panel is believed to have access to video footage and pictures of the incident in Belo Horizonte.
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