Source: Xinhua

06-19-2008 11:23

Special Report:   2008 European Championships

INNSBRUCK, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Germany coach Joachim Loew is facing one match ban imposed by UEFA as result of behavior in Monday's match against Austria in Vienna, it was revealed on Wednesday.

According to the UEFA disciplinary committee, Loew is forbidden to present in the "changing rooms", "players' tunnel" and "technical zone" before and during the game between Germany and Portugal in Thursday's quarterfinal match.

The reason for the punishment of Loew and also for Austria coach Josef Hickersberger, who also blocked for a game is that the two coaches exchanged "word battle" and "shouted at" Fourth Official.

On Thursday, Loew has to watch the game against Portugal from the audience stand, and his assistant Hans-Dieter Flick and goalkeeping coach Andreas Koepke will relay his instructions.

Loew himself said he had "no comment" on the UEFA decision, bu the was "of course disappointed".

Germany team manager Oliver Bierhoff said the decision was a "setback" for Germany.

"I am optimistic that the UEFA ban on Loew only further motivate us, and we will give the right answer on the pitch," he said.

 

Editor:Xiong