Matteo Guendouzi sparks massive brawl after Fenerbahce beat Lyon to qualify for the Champions League

Matteo Guendouzi, a midfielder for Fenerbahce, ignited a major brawl after their Champions League play-off victory over Lyon. The French player was at the center of a large melee involving players and staff. Fenerbahce secured their spot in the Champions League following a 2-1 aggregate win, following a 1-1 draw in Turkey and a 1-0 triumph in France.

However, the match result was marred by chaotic scenes at the Groupama Stadium. Guendouzi, who previously played for Marseille and is still well-liked by their supporters, irritated the home crowd throughout a fiery evening. The 27-year-old displayed the middle finger to Lyon supporters during the warm-up. Their frustration increased after Fenerbahce took control of the tie.

At full-time, Guendouzi celebrated near the furious home players, extending his arms and seemingly provoking them. His actions triggered a confrontation, with Lyon players surrounding the Frenchman and his teammates rushing to protect him. The situation quickly escalated into a violent scene, with members of both coaching staffs joining in as players attempted to separate each other.

Guendouzi further escalated the situation by making the iconic Jul hand gesture associated with Marseille and shouting 'Allez l’OM' towards the Lyon supporters. He was subsequently involved in another altercation as he approached the tunnel. Footage showed home fans throwing objects at him, and a Lyon staff member confronted the midfielder.

Fenerbahce players, including goalkeeper Ederson, intervened as tempers boiled over, with security personnel struggling to separate the rival groups. Chaos ensued inside the tunnel with more players and staff engaged in heated exchanges, with punches and slaps being thrown during a disordered clash involving over 20 individuals.

Guendouzi is likely to face disciplinary action for his gestures and involvement in the confrontation, while UEFA will also investigate the other scenes. While Fenerbahce can rejoice in their result for now, Guendouzi’s antics mean they may have to play some games in that league phase without the influential but volatile player.