'This is an act of simulation' - Ex-refs chief re-analyses Arsenal vs Sporting CP star controversy
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Credit: Imago ‘This is an act of simulation’ – Ex-refs chief re-analyses Arsenal vs Sporting CP star controversy Thu 16 April 2026 7:00, UK Keith Hackett has accused Maximiliano Araujo of attempting to deceive the referee in Arsenal’s 0-0 draw against Sporting CP on Wednesday.The Gunners progressed into the Champions League semi-finals after their 1-0 victory in Portugal last week proved to be enough to send them through.However, at the Emirates, it was a game of few chances, with Sporting CP rarely being able to find a way through Arsenal’s backline.Nevertheless, the visitors were convinced that they should have been awarded a penalty in the second half when Araujo went down inside the box.Upon reviewing the footage, Hackett insists that the Sporting star dived during the priceless Arsenal win. ⚽ Arsenal Matchday ⚽ Team news, line-ups, expert verdicts and previews, and tactical analysis for every Gunners fixture. VISIT THE ARSENAL MATCH HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Keith Hackett: Maximiliano Araujo dived to try and win penalty vs ArsenalWhile Sporting had few chances to level the game, they did get themselves into good areas.Midway through the second half, a ball was flown into the Arsenal box and was heading towards Araujo.Match stats ArsenalSporting CPPossession50.4%49.6%Shots 158Shots on target11Corners 83Touches in opposition box2719Arsenal were slightly better than Sporting However, the Sporting star quickly hit the deck, claiming that Cristhian Mosquera had pushed him to the ground.While replays did show there was some contact, it was minimal at best, and the referee waved away his protests, much to the club’s frustration.Upon reviewing the footage, Hackett agreed with the referee’s call and exclusively told Football Insider that Araujo should have been booked for simulation.He said: “This is an act of simulation; therefore, not a penalty kick offence.“You can see the player prematurely going to dive, and frankly, should have received a yellow card for an act of simulation.”Arsenal now face massive Man City test Ex-Everton chief executive Keith Wyness exclusively told Football Insider that he thinks Arsenal will overcome Man City in their Premier League clash on the weekend.While the Gunners’ display against Sporting CP was far from a classic, they got the job done.This is exactly what they need to do against Pep Guardiola’s side, and even another 0-0 draw may be viewed as a great result if it is achieved.Locked in 🔐 The dates for our Champions League semi-final with Atletico Madrid have now been confirmed 👇— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 15, 2026 There is no doubt that the pressure is now on the Gunners to win at least the Premier League or the Champions League this season.If not, Mikel Arteta’s job may be at risk given that it would be yet another campaign without a major trophy. 💰 ARSENAL INSIDER UPDATE 💰 Inside the transfer budget, player wages, new kits, off-pitch deals and boardroom developments at Emirates Stadium.
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