MILAN – Another two matches, another pair of incidents where perceived simulation influenced key moments. Exaggerated contact, a more or less theatrical dive, the attempt to deceive the referee. Just two weeks after the now-famous case of Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni, and despite the wave of controversy following the incident that decided the Inter-Juventus match and Bastoni’s public apology, simulations continue to be a problem. The outcomes vary – sometimes the referee calls it and punishes the attempt to deceive, other times the attempt succeeds.
Dumfries and the Exaggerated Contact in Inter-Atalanta
Atalanta equalized at San Siro with a goal from Krstovic, created by a ball lost by Dumfries. How? In a one-on-one situation against Sulemana, the Inter wing-back went to ground as soon as he felt contact from the opposing attacker. Sulemana placed a hand on Dumfries’ back, while Dumfries simultaneously used his right arm to create distance. Then, feeling the touch, he threw himself to the ground. Atalanta scored, referee Manganiello didn’t call a foul, VAR didn’t intervene, and the refereeing authorities approved the decision (though not the penalty not awarded to Frattesi). Chivu was angry, Inter too, but why did Dumfries, already in a favorable position against Sulemana, wait for the opponent’s touch before falling? Why didn’t he pass the ball to Sommer, clear it upfield, or make any other decision that didn’t involve trying to trick the referee into awarding a free kick?
Diao and Wesley’s Expulsion in Como-Roma
A similar situation unfolded in Como-Roma involving Diao. Wesley, along with teammate Rensch, saw the attacker fall to the ground with minimal contact, prompting referee Massa to issue a second yellow card to the Roma defender, resulting in an expulsion. There was likely a slight touch on Diao, but Rensch was the one who initiated the contact, not Wesley. It appeared Wesley didn’t even touch the former Betis player. Could he have stayed on his feet? In this case, there was less of a deliberate attempt to win a foul, but Diao as well went down very easily.
New Rules to Combat Deception
Simulation is the most unpleasant act for a referee to endure. Referee designator Rocchi repeats this often. Players must help the referees, not constantly try to trick them. Notice moments of general outrage, as seen in the Bastoni case. But, from the following weekend, everything returns to normal. How to limit it? Should players always be cautioned for exaggerating contact? Should fines be introduced for those caught simulating? At the end of February, the IFAB (International Football Association Board) approved some changes to the rules that will come into effect on June 1st. Among these, a rule that punishes players who fall to the ground and request medical assistance simply to waste time: if a player requires medical intervention for more than 8 seconds, they will then be sidelined for 60 minutes unless the foul resulted in a card (yellow or red) for the offender. A tiny step.
The ongoing debate surrounding simulation in Serie A highlights a growing concern about gamesmanship and its impact on fair play. While the new IFAB rules represent a move in the right direction, the effectiveness of these measures will depend on consistent application by referees and a shift in player behavior. The recent incidents involving Dumfries and Diao serve as stark reminders that the issue remains prevalent, and vigilance is crucial to preserving the integrity of the league. The controversy surrounding Alessandro Bastoni, following his role in Pierre Kalulu’s sending-off, continues to resonate, with some calling for stricter penalties for simulation, while others argue for a more nuanced approach that considers the intensity and physicality of the game.
Looking ahead, Inter will aim to maintain their lead at the top of the Serie A table, with a crucial match against Napoli next weekend. Roma, meanwhile, will look to rebound from their defeat in Como and solidify their position in the European qualification spots. The spotlight will undoubtedly remain on refereeing decisions and the potential for simulation to influence outcomes, as Serie A navigates this ongoing challenge.
What are your thoughts on the increasing prevalence of simulation in Serie A? Share your opinions in the comments below.
