Demirovic’s Dive in Stuttgart vs. Köln Sparks Controversy, Matthäus Calls for Dismissal

In a match that saw VfB Stuttgart secure a 3-1 win over 1. FC Köln, striker Ermedin Demirovic’s crucial brace stole the headlines. However, a contentious incident in the closing stages of the game has sparked debate among football pundits, with German football legend Lothar Matthäus calling for Demirovic’s dismissal.

Demirovic’s Diving Incident

In the 89th minute, Demirovic collided with Cologne’s Sebastian Sebulonsen in a duel. Despite no clear foul being committed, Demirovic went down and stayed on the ground, much to the chagrin of former German international and Sky pundit, Lothar Matthäus.

“Yes, Demirovic crashes against Sebulonsen. But through his own movement. I don’t want to say anything about that.” – Lothar Matthäus

Sky Germany

Matthäus Demands a Yellow-Red Card

Matthäus, visibly irritated, expressed his displeasure, stating:

“Yellow-red card normally – for me. That’s an act. He wanted to get up twice beforehand. He doesn’t need to, even if you say beforehand that it’s part of his game. He laughs his head off afterwards. Took 20 seconds off the clock… Then he gets up and has nothing left.” – Lothar Matthäus

Sky Germany

Demirovic, however, met Matthäus after the game and discussed the incident. When shown the replay, Matthäus admitted that Demirovic could have gotten up earlier but wasn’t intentionally trying to deceive the referee.

Demirovic’s Take on the Incident

Demirovic, speaking to Sky, remembered fouling Sebulonsen earlier in the game and being shown a yellow card. He explained his actions:

“I just told him: ‘Get up.’ If he gets up, I probably won’t get the yellow card. Then I’ll do a little more with it. Of course he hits me. Then I’m exhausted too. ‘Just want a few seconds of peace.’” – Ermedin Demirovic

Sky Germany

Reaction and Resolution

Everyone present had a laugh over Demirovic’s explanation. Matthäus, reconciliation evident, joined in. The Stuttgart forward admitted it wasn’t acting but still caused a stir. Sebulonsen appeared to escape further punishment, with referee Felix Brych taking no further action.

Key Points

• Ermedin Demirovic scored a brace in Stuttgart’s 3-1 win over Köln.
• Demirovic’s dramatic fall in the 89th minute sparked controversy.
• Lothar Matthäus demanded a yellow-red card for Demirovic’s apparent dive.
• Demirovic admitted to tactical lying but denied acting.
• The incident ended with laughter and no further action from the referee.

Watch the Incident Here

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