Rival Superstars Clash After Controversial Penalty in Derby MatchRival Superstars Clash After Controversial Penalty in Derby Match The already-heated rivalry between FC United and FC Cologne reached boiling point on Sunday after a controversial penalty decision marred their derby match. With the game locked at 1-1 in the second half, United defender Antonio Valencia was deemed to have fouled Cologne forward Patrick Schick in the penalty area. Referee Felix Zwayer awarded the penalty, despite replays showing minimal contact. Cologne captain Jonas Hector stepped up and converted the spot-kick, handing his side a 2-1 victory. However, the decision sparked a furious reaction from United players and fans. Valencia confronted Zwayer after the game, accusing him of bias towards Cologne. “It was a clear dive,” Valencia raged. “The referee has robbed us in our own backyard.” Schick defended his actions, claiming he was “simply trying to win the ball.” However, United manager Jose Mourinho questioned Schick’s integrity. “He’s a cheat,” Mourinho said. “He didn’t respect the game or the fans.” The penalty decision also led to a heated exchange between Mourinho and Cologne coach Peter Stöger. “We were denied a fair result,” Mourinho fumed. “Your team played dirty and got away with it.” Stöger hit back, accusing Mourinho of “making excuses.” “We won fairly and squarely,” Stöger said. “United should learn to accept defeat.” The clash between Mourinho and Stöger overshadowed the otherwise entertaining match. FC United had taken an early lead through Marcus Rashford, but Cologne equalized through Timo Werner before the controversial penalty. The result leaves FC Cologne top of the Bundesliga table, while FC United remain in fourth place. However, the rivalry between the two clubs is now more intense than ever before. With a rematch scheduled in the DFB-Pokal quarterfinals next month, the stage is set for another explosive encounter. The controversial penalty decision will undoubtedly fuel the animosity between the teams, promising a fiery and unforgettable chapter in the history of the derby.
