Chelsea striker Didier Drogba was on Wednesday banned from European competition for six matches, two of which are suspended, while full-back Jose Bosingwa was handed a four-game ban, with one match suspended, UEFA's disciplinary committee announced.

The decision follows the angry scenes that marred Chelsea's elimination from the Champions League on away goals at the hands of Barcelona after a 1-1 draw between the clubs in the second leg of their semi-final at Stamford Bridge on May 6.

"Drogba and Bosingwa were facing charges of being in breach of the principles of sportsmanship by insulting the referee by making offensive comments," read a statement on the UEFA website.

"Drogba's suspension applies to the next four UEFA club competition matches for which the player would be eligible, while Bosingwa's suspension applies to the next three UEFA club competition matches for which the player would be eligible."

The club and the players have three days in which to appeal the decision.

Chelsea had already been fined €100,000 for "the improper conduct of their players and the throwing of missiles by their supporters".

AFP