Figal and Herrera hit with four-match suspensions as Belotti receives lesser ban

The decision has sparked outrage among Boca fans, particularly as Andrea Belotti, who caught Ayrton Costa in the head with his studs, has received just a two-match ban.

The sanctions, announced after Colombian referee Cesar Arturo Ramos showed three red cards during the encounter, have not gone down well in the Boca Juniors camp. The punishments are considered particularly severe by the Argentine side.

According to FIFA's official communication, both Boca players sent off—Figal and Herrera—will be suspended for four matches, meaning they would only be eligible to return in the unlikely event that Boca reach the semi-finals of the Club World Cup.

Figal saw red for a reckless challenge on Florentino Luis, catching the Portuguese midfielder high on the shin with the studs of his boot while contesting a loose ball near the touchline.

Ander Herrera, meanwhile, was dismissed from the bench for angrily protesting the penalty awarded to Benfica just before half-time. After being shown the red card, he had to be escorted from the technical area by stadium security.

The controversial aspect lies in the relative leniency shown to Benfica forward Andrea Belotti, who has been handed a two-match ban. The Italian striker raised his boot dangerously and caught Ayrton Costa in the head, yet will only miss the final two matches of the group stage.

Boca supporters have voiced their anger at what they see as an inconsistent application of disciplinary measures. Meanwhile, Argentine outlet TyC Sports reports that the club's board plans to appeal Figal's suspension, hoping to have it reduced in line with Belotti's.

There is a quiet confidence at Boca that the sanction could yet be softened.