Everton Star Seamus Coleman's Controversy with Bruno Fernandes
Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett told Football Insider that Seamus Coleman had every right to be annoyed with referee Ivan Kruzliak.
Kruzliak should have communicated better with Coleman during the Republic of Ireland's World Cup qualifier against Portugal, according to Hackett.
Seamus Coleman was right to be annoyed with Ivan Kruzliak as he constantly spoke to Bruno Fernandes despite him also not being a captain.
The match was marked by controversy, including a contentious handball penalty given to Portugal in the second half, which was saved by Caoimhin Kelleher.
- Ruben Neves scored a late winner for Portugal, breaking Ireland's hopes for a vital point in their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.
- Cristiano Ronaldo's spot-kick was saved by Caoimhin Kelleher after a penalty was awarded for a handball by Dara O'Shea.
Author's summary: Keith Hackett defends Seamus Coleman's reaction to referee Ivan Kruzliak's handling of the game.