Italy's soccer federation cancels Napoli forward Marcello Zalayeta's suspension

Italy's soccer federation voided the two-match suspension of Napoli forward Marcello Zalayeta.

Photo: Italy's soccer federation cancels Napoli forward Marcello Zalayeta's suspension

In Napoli's 3-1 win against Juventus on Saturday, Zalayeta fell to the ground to earn a penalty that led to Napoli's third goal. The player was suspended on Monday, indicating officials believed that he faked being tripped by Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon.

Replays showed that Buffon made no contact with Zalayeta, although Zalayeta said he was pushed from behind by another Juventus player and fell to the ground to avoid running into Buffon.

Napoli appealed the decision, citing newly obtained video it said cleared Zalayeta.

The federation said the video showed Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie holding Zalayeta's shirt.

"This might have affected the player's balance," the federation said in granting the Napoli appeal.

It added it could not rule out further contact between Legrottaglie and Zalayeta.

Napoli's second goal also was controversial, a penalty drawn by Ezequiel Ivan Lavezzi. Maurizio Domizzi converted both spot kicks for Napoli.

The decisions have renewed calls to make TV replays available to match officials. The front-page headline in Tuesday's Gazzetta dello Sport read: "Voglia di Moviola" - loosely translated as "Thirsty for Replays."