Oscar hit with 8-match ban for inciting fracas in China

Former Chelsea midfielder Oscar was handed an eight-match ban Thursday for inciting a mass brawl during Shanghai SIPG's 1-1 draw at Guangzhou R&F last Sunday.

The Brazilian is among the more notable names chasing the riches of the Chinese Super League, but his bulky pay packet failed to subdue his frustration when he struggled to corral the ball just before half-time.

Now the 25-year-old will be out of commission until mid-August, when Shanghai takes on mid-table outfit Chongqing Dangdai Lifan.

"According to the referee's report, video evidence, and a written explanation from the parties involved, when the game reached the 45+2 minute, SIPG player Oscar offended opposing players in an immoral manner, leading to a massive brawl which has had a very bad influence on the Chinese Super League's reputation," an official statement said, as relayed by ESPN FC's Michael Church.

Oscar was also fined 40,000 RMB (£4,623.50), and although he didn't receive punishment at the time, Guangzhou's Li Tixiang and Shanghai's Fu Huan were dismissed for their roles in the melee.