Referee details reasons for Zuqui and Palavecino expulsions in UC's loss

Referee Diego Flores has officially documented the reasons behind the dismissals of Universidad Católica players Fernando Zuqui and Matías Palavecino during their recent 2-1 defeat against Ñublense. The match, held at Claro Arena, saw its first red card issued just seven minutes in.

Flores' report states that Fernando Zuqui was expelled for "serious foul play." The referee elaborated that the midfielder "struck the opponent with the sole of his foot on the Achilles tendon with excessive force," adding that the action "endangered the physical integrity" of his rival. This early dismissal significantly impacted the team's performance.

Matías Palavecino, who had been substituted out in the 81st minute for Gary Medel, also received a red card in the final moments of the game. According to Flores' report, Palavecino was shown a second yellow card "for disapproving a referee's call with words and actions from the substitutes' bench." This incident led to his expulsion from the sidelines.