SAO PAULO (AP) β The Brazilian football confederation is meeting with the captains of all 20 first division teams to try to clarify a controversial change in the way referees have been calling hand balls, hoping to ease some of the criticism from clubs, coaches and the media.
The number of penalty kicks awarded in Brazil increased significantly after a new recommendation from the confederation prompted referees to be more rigorous when calling hand balls, especially inside the area.
The change created a lot of confusion and ignited complaints from virtually all parties involved. Referees considered going on strike because of the “lack of respect” against officiating crews.
The confederation says it has not changed international rules and guarantees that FIFA’s recommendations are still being applied as usual.
