Foul disallowed

Fair play moment of the day from ÖFB star Gregoritsch!

Michael Gregoritsch(Bild: GEPA)

Even without scoring a goal, Michael Gregoritsch caused quite a stir in Germany’s Bundesliga today: During FC Augsburg’s match against Hamburger SV, the ÖFB striker refused a free kick for his team following an alleged foul against him, deeming it unwarranted!

Here’s what happened: An offensive play by the visitors, who were leading 1-0 just before halftime, found Gregoritsch at the edge of the penalty area, and he tried to turn to get into a better shooting position.

Free kick for Augsburg—or not?
In the process, there was foot contact between the Austrian and HSV player Fábio Vieira. Referee Deniz Aytekin was well-positioned and initially awarded a free kick to Augsburg…

But the TV replay quickly showed: Gregoritsch had stepped on Vieira’s foot and slipped in the process.

While the HSV player subsequently even had to receive treatment on his ankle, Aytekin spoke with Gregoritsch on the sideline—and the player apparently explained to the ref that the action had not been a foul on him.

“That was absolutely brilliant!”
What followed: The free kick was rescinded, and the HSV players clapped for Gregoritsch, impressed by the ÖFB player’s sportsmanship. “That was pure theater,” Aytekin told Sky. “Many say there’s no respect, no fairness, and no humanity in soccer. That was a prime example of mutual respect.”