A little background on why Matheus Cunha only received a two match ban following his charge at the Molineux game vs Ipswich.
Wolves striker Matheus Cunha avoided a potential three-match ban after an incident during Wolves’ 2-1 loss to Ipswich Town on December 14. The reduction to a two-match suspension followed his decision to pay for a pair of glasses broken during the altercation and other mitigating factors.
The situation unfolded post-match on the pitch, where Cunha grabbed glasses from an Ipswich Town security staff member and struck him with an elbow. This occurred amidst a scuffle involving teammate Rayan Ait-Nouri, who received a second yellow card and was sent off. Referee Simon Hooper missed Cunha’s actions, leading to a retroactive FA misconduct charge.
Reasons for the Ban Reduction
Cunha accepted the charge and submitted a handwritten letter of apology to the Ipswich staff member. His remorse, coupled with his offer to replace the broken glasses and a previously clean disciplinary record, played a role in the regulatory commission’s decision to reduce the suspension. Initially fined £120,000, Cunha’s penalty was also lowered to £80,000.
Context of the Incident
Video evidence and submissions from both clubs were reviewed by the commission on December 30. Cunha admitted rushing to aid Ait-Nouri, claiming he felt threatened as Ipswich staff surrounded his teammate. He denied intent to strike anyone, stating his actions were meant to push the security guard away. However, the commission rejected his account, finding his actions “highly improper” without provocation from Ipswich staff.
Consequences and FA Proceedings
The unusual nature of the case, deemed “non-standard,” delayed the disciplinary process. This allowed Cunha to play in three matches after the Ipswich game, scoring twice as Wolves secured seven points under new head coach Vitor Pereira.
Cunha’s suspension ruled him out of Wolves’ 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest and the upcoming FA Cup third-round match against Bristol City.
Though Wolves argued for a single-match ban, the commission maintained leniency by reducing the suspension from three matches to two, emphasising Cunha’s improper conduct but acknowledging his apologies and proactive measures.