Progresso Player Red-Carded After Kicking Dog in PLB Final

An incident of animal mistreatment during Saturday night’s Premier League of Belize Opening Season Final has sparked widespread condemnation from football authorities and the public alike. During the match, a dog entered the field of play, prompting a stoppage. Video footage circulating from the game shows a Progresso FC defender kicking the animal before the play resumed. The act was witnessed by spectators at the stadium and by viewers watching the live broadcast. Match officials responded by issuing a red card to the player for violent conduct.  The Football Federation of Belize has since issued a formal statement condemning the player’s actions, describing the behavior as unacceptable and inconsistent with the values of football. The federation emphasized that it does not condone any form of animal abuse and confirmed that the matter has been referred to its Disciplinary Committee for further review. Officials say appropriate sanctions will be determined following that process.  Public reaction has been swift and strong, with social media users expressing outrage over the mistreatment of the dog and raising concerns about stadium security, particularly how a loose animal was able to gain access to the pitch during a high-profile final.  Despite the controversy, the match concluded with Verdes FC securing the Opening Season title after a 1-nil victory over Progresso FC.  The championship match between Progresso Football Club and Verdes Football Club was played at the Edmund Marshalleck Stadium in Benque Viejo del Carmen, Cayo District.