The German Football Association (DFB) is currently investigating allegations of poor performance during the Supercup.
In the intense Supercup match, forward Victor Boniface from victorious Bayer Leverkusen might face repercussions. The DFB Control Committee revealed they're examining the controversial incident involving Boniface. The allegation: he reportedly flipped off Stuttgart players as he strolled by them post-match. Leverkusen emerged victorious against Stuttgart 4-3 on penalties last Saturday evening.
Referee Tobias Stieler informed DFB that he had not witnessed this incident, thereby enabling the committee to look into it retrospectively. Sniffing out grossly unbecoming behavior as a possibility, the committee sent Boniface a letter requesting an immediate response. Following the evaluation of his statement, the committee will decide the next step in the proceedings.
Bayer coach Xabi Alonso maintained his cool after the final whistle when asked about Boniface's alleged unsportsmanlike act. "I didn't notice it and can't comment on it. But there was quite a bit of commotion at the end. That's normal and not much of a concern," the 42-year-old Spanish tactician explained. The game was filled with tension and occasional chaos, with some scuffles breaking out every now and then.
Boniface netted the initial goal for Leverkusen (11th min.), but Enzo Millot (15th) swiftly equalized. Boniface was taken off just before halftime due to a tactical substitution for new signing Martin Terrier who received a red card. Just 47 seconds following his replacement, Deniz Undav scored the lead for Stuttgart. Mirroring their recent trends, Patrik Schick levelled the score for Leverkusen in the 88th minute. The penalty shootout witnessed Leverkusen keeper Lukas Hradecky save against Frans Krätzig. Silas then missed the target, enabling Leverkusen to clinch their first title of the season by winning the shootout.
The DFB Control Committee expressed their intention to investigate Boniface's conduct, mentioning that they will examine his response to their request for an explanation, based on which they will adopt implementing acts laid down by the UEFA's UEFA Disciplinary Regulations. In light of this potential misconduct, the UEFA Commission may impose sanctions against Boniface, including a suspension or a fine.
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