Thailand's Goal newspaper reported that AFC suspended three Buriram United players: Ramil Sheydayev (8 matches), Leon James (6 matches) and Chitipat Tanklang (6 matches).
In addition, AFC also punished three Zhejiang FC players, Gao Di, Yao Junsheng and Leonardo, along with two other members of the team's coaching staff.
The incident stemmed from an argument between Theerathon Bunmathan and a player from the home team. Leon James approached and said, " Calm down, the game is over ." He was immediately slapped in the face by a Zhejiang FC player. After that, the players from both sides could not keep calm, leading to a fight.
Buriram United and Zhejiang FC players brawl. (Photo: Getty)
Ramil Sheydayev was surrounded and beaten by the home team's players. However, he was said to have actively participated in the fight. Not only that, the Russian player also posted defiant words online. Defender Theerathon Bunmathon - who started the fight - received no punishment.
On his personal page, Mr. Newin Chidchob - Chairman of Buriram United - said: " We sent pictures and videos proving that members of the home team attacked Buriram United players in the team area. Most players avoided collision. Some could not escape and were attacked, so they had to defend themselves and save their teammates.
However, we must accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee. The team will not have the services of the three players - who were deemed to have violated - in the AFC Champions League, from December 12 onwards ".
Buriram United are currently third in Group H with six points. They are two points behind the top two teams and still have a chance to advance. In their final match, they will face the top team Ventforet Kofu.
Mr. Newin Chidchob considered this the final match of the group, and called on fans to come to Chang Arena to cheer up the players. He expressed: " They banned players from the field but we still have a 12th player and the most valuable ones ."
Van Hai
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