In a fiery Champions League night in Belgrade, Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel saw red after an explosive reaction to a decision that went against his defender, Crystal Palace loanee Marc Guéhi.
The incident erupted in the 43rd minute of Bayern's commanding 3-0 away victory over Red Star Belgrade. Serbian striker Osman Bukari went down under a challenge from Guéhi, prompting the match official to point to the penalty spot.
Tuchel's protestations from the touchline were immediate and vehement. His furious outburst towards the officials resulted in a straight red card, forcing him to watch the remainder of the match from the stands.
Controversy on the Pitch
The decision to award the penalty was a contentious one. Replays suggested the contact from the England international was minimal, a point that undoubtedly fuelled Tuchel's frustration. The Bayern bench was left incensed by the call, which threatened to mar an otherwise dominant performance from the German giants.
Justice of a sort was swiftly served for the visitors. Bayern's goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, lived up to his legendary reputation by producing a stunning save to deny Bukari from the resulting spot-kick, keeping his clean sheet intact.
Tuchel's Forced Silence
The dismissal means Tuchel will face a touchline ban for Bayern's next European fixture. For a manager known for his intense, hands-on approach, being barred from the dugout is a significant blow. He was forced to communicate with his assistants remotely for the entire second half as his team comfortably saw out the match with goals from Harry Kane and two from Leroy Sané.
The red card adds a dramatic chapter to Tuchel's history in the touchline and provides a talking point from what was otherwise a routine victory for the Bundesliga champions.
