The match between Benfica and Auckland City, which ended in a resounding 6-0 victory in the second round of the Club World Cup group stage, witnessed a controversial incident involving midfielder Orkun Kökçü and his coach Bruno Lage after the player was substituted.
Tension began when Lage replaced Kökçü with Renato Sanches in the 62nd minute, with the score at 2-0.
Kökçü’s Angry Reaction: Benfica Star Refuses to Shake Coach’s Hand After Substitution at Club World Cup”
Just one minute after coming on, Renato Sanches scored Benfica’s third goal, prompting coach Bruno Lage to gesture for Kökçü to stay quiet.
Kökçü reacted emotionally, approaching the coach and pointing his finger at him before teammate Kerem Aktürkoğlu intervened to stop him from leaving the bench.
In the post-match press conference, Lage downplayed the incident, saying Kökçü’s behavior reflected a “professional sporting spirit” and a desire to help the team.
“I make decisions in the team’s best interest, regardless of the player’s name. Kökçü always acts professionally on and off the pitch,” added Lage.
Lage ruled out disciplinary action, emphasizing that tactical decisions are made “calmly” based on the situation.
Kökçü may start on the bench again in Benfica’s next match against Bayern Munich on Tuesday night, just as he did in the opening game.
Bayern currently top the group, while Benfica hold a solid position, three points and seven goals ahead of Boca Juniors, who could threaten Benfica’s hopes if they beat Auckland City and Benfica lose to Bayern.