Calcutta: Jose Ramirez Barreto was involved in yet another controversy after Mohammedan Sporting’s Nirapada Mondal accused the Brazilian of slapping him in the players’ tunnel after the goalless tie at the Salt Lake Stadium.

The ‘spitting row’ involving the Mohun Bagan forward and East Bengal’s Madhab Das is still to be sorted out.

“Barreto threatened me during the match… As I was making my way through the tunnel, he slapped me… Coming from a player of his stature, it’s unfortunate,” Mondal said later.

Mohammedan Sporting have lodged an official complaint with match commissioner K. Shankar.

Barreto alleged Mondal had thrice spat at him on the ground. “I only pushed him in the tunnel,” the star forward said.

Shabbir Ali, however, said he did not notice the incident.

Ali, satisfied with the team’s showing, said: “I always said the arrival of foreigners would make the difference… That is what has happened.”

Mohun Bagan Carlos Roberto Pereira didn’t offer any excuses.

“Our key players didn’t play well. Mohammedan Sporting’s goalie also made a big difference. We were very slow in attack. This happens sometimes… But I am confident of winning the title.”