João Gonçalves was the referee chosen by the Arbitration Council of the Portuguese Football Federation to officiate the match between Benfica and Gil Vicente, related to the 5th round of Liga Portugal Betclic. The appointment has not gone unnoticed among the red-and-white fans, who question the choice given the referee's recent history with the Eagles.
The referee returns to competition after being sidelined in the previous round due to failing the physical tests carried out two weeks ago. João Gonçalves was re-evaluated on Wednesday and, after passing the tests, was deemed fit to referee again.
The appointment has gained special attention due to an episode from last season that still remains in the memory of Benfica fans. João Gonçalves refereed the 2-2 draw between Braga and Benfica, a match in which he disallowed a goal that could have put the Eagles ahead 3-2.
In the final stretch of that match, the referee awarded an attacking foul by Richard Ríos on Vítor Carvalho, invalidating the red-and-white goal. This incident remains etched in the memory of Benfica fans, who now view João Gonçalves's appointment for this new encounter with some distrust.
