Iraqi fan hands over $1,700 in goal dispute

NASIRIYAH, Iraq (AFP) - An Iraqi Real Madrid supporter had to pay a fan of rival Barcelona $1,700 (1,215 euros) after a row over a disallowed Champions League goal was resolved by their tribes, a relative said Monday.

The two-million Iraqi dinar fine settled the dispute that erupted after a controversial decision to rule out a goal by Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain for a foul by teammate Christiano Ronaldo in the second leg of the Spanish clubs' May 3 Champions League semi-final in Barcelona.

Haidar Samir, a 25-year-old Madrid supporter, and Hassan Attar, a 23-year-old civil servant and Barcelona fan, got into the argument while watching the match in a cafe in the southern Iraqi city of Nasiriyah.

"They argued about whether the goal was valid or not, and they began to insult each other and fight," said Haidar al-Hamdani, a cousin of Haidar Samir.

Representatives of both of their tribes were eventually called in to resolve the dispute, and initially agreed that Haidar would hand over 12 million Iraqi dinars ($10,200/7,290 euros), before that amount was reduced to the final fine.
"Haidar handed over the money yesterday," Hamdani said, adding further injury to the supporter, whose side Real Madrid was eliminated by Barcelona from the Champions League.
Football is by far the most popular sport in Iraq, and several cafes are expected to broadcast the Champions League final between Barcelona and English club Manchester United live on Saturday.