BEIJING, Sept. 27 (silubaba) -- The Chinese Football Association (CFA) announced on Wednesday that Beijing Guoan midfielder Zhang Xizhe has been banned for seven games after he verbally abused the fourth official in a Chinese Super League game.
Zhang, who was substituted in the 89th minute of the 1-1 draw between Beijing and Changchun Yatai last Friday, rushed out of his team's technical area and insulted the fourth official loudly before heading towards the changing room in the first minute of stoppage time, the CFA said in a statement.
The 32-year-old player was also fined 70,000 yuan (9,570 U.S. dollars), the Chinese football governing body added.
Beijing Guoan disputed the CFA's disciplinary decision over Zhang, demanding more convincing proofs.
"We felt deeply sad and confused, we will justifiably argue against the decision. Our club also asks the CFA disciplinary committee to provide more detailed proofs for their decision," the Beijing club said in a statement.
"A huge controversy like this will make it harder for our club to strive for a berth in the Asian continental competition. It will also lead to the fans questioning the referees' capabilities," it added. ■
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