Former Serie A referee Graziano Cesari assessed the only controversial moment from yesterday’s game between Sassuolo and Inter Milan.
Speaking to the Pressing via FCInter1908, Cesari jumped to Daniele Chiffi’s defense amid harsh criticism of the 44-year-old referee.
Incredible scenes at the Mapei Stadium saw Federico Dimarco haul three assists in the opening 55 minutes of play.
Therefore, the 28-year-old wingback won the ‘Man of the Match’ award as Inter trounced Sassuolo 5-0 in Emilia-Romagna.
Despite an emphatic scoreline, a small detail overshadowed the Nerazzurri’s statement performance.
Indeed, Marcus Thuram was reportedly in an offside position when he earned the corner that resulted in Inter’s opening goal.
Though he was clearly behind Tarik Muharemovic, it remains uncertain whether Josh Doig played him onside.
Nevertheless, the Italian media has scrutinized Chiffi, who otherwise enjoyed a great game.
However, Cesari offered a different opinion, backing the main referee’s decision.
Graziano Cesari Takes Stock of Sassuolo 0-5 Inter Milan Controversy & Defends Daniele Chiffi
PhotoL Giovanni Evangelista / LaPresse
“Bisseck’s goal comes from a corner,” Cesari said. “But if Thuram was in an earlier offside position, VAR stays silent and cannot intervene.
“There’s no alignment, and all we know is that Doig complained about Thuram’s position, but we have no certainty.
“I hope the assistant did his job and that there was no offside. I trust the assistant for not raising the flag,” he added. “We can absolve him.
Then, Cesari offered his verdict on Nemanja Matic’s expulsion shortly after Manuel Akanji’s goal.
Indeed, the Serbian veteran received two yellow cards in quick succession.
“Matic’s red card? The play was stopped, and he hugged the Inter player before the ball was back in play,” Cesari claimed.
“Akanji wriggles free and scores. Matic protests, but why? Yellow card.
“Then the lip-reading is very clear: he tells the referee off, straight red. Chiffi did well.”
