Javier Correa Returns with a Goal and Criticizes Referee Treatment

Argentine forward Javier Correa marked his return to Colo Colo with a goal, helping his team secure a 2-2 draw against O'Higgins in the 19th round of the Liga de Primera. Correa had been sidelined for three matches after receiving a four-game suspension for strong remarks made against referee Nicolás Gamboa following a previous match. The initial suspension was later reduced by one game after Colo Colo's appeal.

Upon his return, Correa voiced his discontent with the penalty he received, suggesting a perceived double standard in how players are treated. He pointed out inconsistencies in disciplinary actions, implying that the team's high profile might influence refereeing decisions. "We know we are Colo Colo. It hurts them to see us here, it hurts them to see us doing well, so they try to destabilize us in some way," Correa stated in a conversation with TNT Sports, referencing the incident that kept him off the field.

Correa specifically questioned the disparity in penalties, noting that another player who physically interacted with a referee received only a one-match ban, while his own strong verbal criticism led to a longer suspension. "They wanted to set a precedent with one person, that's fine. I hope so. I saw another player applaud him, push the referee, and they gave him only one. So the bar is different," he remarked.

Looking ahead, Correa expressed excitement for the upcoming "clásico" match, acknowledging Colo Colo's current position as league leaders. He anticipates a challenging game, with rivals like Universidad de Chile closely pursuing them in the standings. "A nice week of classics is coming. We are leaders, we know everyone wants to catch up to us. La U is chasing us there, so it will be a nice match," he added.