Israeli Soccer Player Red-Carded for Mimicking Shooting with Corner Flag

An Israeli footballer, 20-year-old Saeid Abu Farchi, was sent off during a Nations League match against Austria after mimicking shooting with a corner flag. The incident occurred in the 55th minute, shortly after Abu Farchi had scored Israel's equalizing goal, making the score 1-1. The Bulgarian referee, Georgi Kabakov, interpreted the gesture as a "shooting imitation" and issued Abu Farchi a second yellow card, resulting in a red card and his expulsion from the game. Israel's team, reduced to ten players, ultimately lost the match 3-1.

The incident sparked heated debate on social media, with some users making antisemitic comments. It was pointed out that Abu Farchi is an Arab Muslim who plays for the Israeli national team, holds full citizenship, and is not known to complain about his life. Others argued that Abu Farchi's gesture resembled a billiard cue rather than a firearm, suggesting he was mimicking a pool shot.

Abu Farchi, who plays for Maccabi and is currently on loan to the Colorado Rapids in the United States, is expected to be more restrained in his celebrations in the future.