UEFA poised to punish Adriano

UEFA have started disciplinary action against Shakhtar Donetsk striker Luiz Adriano following his controversial Champions League goal against Nordsjaelland on Tuesday night.

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The Brazilian forward outraged the Danish side when he went against conventional protocol by scoring when team-mate Willian was attempting to give the hosts possession following a break for injury.

Instead of allowing the ball to continue to the Nordsjaelland goalkeeper, Adriano took possession, rounded him and slotted into the empty net.

Further confusion then came when it appeared the Ukrainian side would let a goal be scored to cancel out Adriano's effort only for Taras Stepanenko to make step in and make a challenge.

UEFA released a statement that read: "UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against FC Shakhtar Donetsk player Luiz Adriano following last night's UEFA Champions League group stage match against FC Nordsjælland in Copenhagen.

"Luiz Adriano faces charges for violation of the principles of conduct (Article 5, UEFA Disciplinary Regulations), and his case will be heard by the UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body on Tuesday 27 November."

Article 5 of the European governing body's code dictates that: "Member associations, clubs, as well as their players, officials and members shall conduct themselves according to the principles of loyalty, integrity and sportsmanship."

Shakhtar coach Mircea Lucescu apologized for the goal, which came in the 26th minute when Nordsjaelland were leading 1-0.

Shakhtar would go on to win the game 5-2 and book their place in the knock-out stages of the Champions League, with Adriano finishing the match with a hat-trick.

Nordsjaelland, meanwhile, have just one point from their five Group E games and are out of European competition.