A fierce refereeing controversy has gripped Portuguese football, with Nigeria defender Zaidu Sanusi at the centre of a storm following FC Porto’s dramatic 2-2 draw against Famalicão, Footynaija reports.
The flashpoint came late in the first half at the Estádio do Dragão. As Porto attempted to deal with a long throw into their penalty area, Sanusi jumped to clear the danger and appeared to catch Famalicão’s Gustavo Sá with his arm. The away side immediately called for a penalty, and tensions rose further given that the Super Eagles star had already been booked earlier in the match.
Referee Sérgio Guelho, however, waved play on, while VAR chose not to intervene — a decision that has since triggered widespread debate across the Primeira Liga.
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The reaction from Portugal’s biggest clubs was swift and sharp. Benfica took to social media to criticise the call, suggesting inconsistency in officiating, while Sporting CP were also drawn into the wider argument. Porto, led by coach Francesco Farioli, hit back, pointing to similar incidents earlier in the season that went unpunished. Farioli’s pointed remarks about “grey areas” in refereeing only added fuel to a growing sense of mistrust.
Amid the noise, the match itself delivered late drama that could yet shape the title race. Porto led through Alberto Costa before Famalicão responded after the break. Substitute Seko Fofana appeared to have secured victory with a stoppage-time goal, only for Rodrigo Pinheiro to equalise deep into added time.
The result leaves Porto still in control at the top, but their advantage has been dented, especially with both Benfica and Sporting holding games in hand. With only a handful of fixtures remaining, the fallout from this match could prove decisive.
Still, the controversy comes during a season of quiet resilience for Sanusi. After injury setbacks, he has rebuilt his role within the squad, offering pace and defensive stability when called upon.
The former Santa Clara right-back will be keen to inspire Porto to the league title at the end of the campaign.
