De Bruyne Pushes Referee as One-Minute Rule Sparks Anger

Kevin De Bruyne angrily confronted the referee during Belgium’s UEFA Nations League clash with France after being required to leave the pitch for one minute under a new rule.

The Belgian midfielder objected to the enforced spell off the field. His protest escalated into physical contact when he pushed the referee.

De Bruyne also directed a profane remark at the official during the confrontation, venting his frustration over the requirement to temporarily leave play.

The incident put the one-minute rule at the centre of the dispute. The available details do not explain what triggered its application or whether De Bruyne faced disciplinary action over his response.