Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho was banned for five Champions League matches yesterday after accusing UEFA of conspiring to help Barcelona.

UEFA's disciplinary panel ruled that Mourinho made an "inappropriate" comment in a post-match interview. Mourinho also was sent from the dugout for comments to the match officials during the first leg of the semifinals last week.

After Madrid's 2-0 defeat, Mourinho said UEFA and referees actively tried to help Barcelona reach the Champions League final in each of the last three seasons.

He served one match of the ban when Madrid were eliminated in Tuesday's game at Barcelona, a 1-1 draw, and another match was suspended for three years.

Mourinho therefore can't communicate with players and coaches at Madrid's first three group matches next season. UEFA also fined Mourinho €50,000 ($73,000).

Madrid immediately announced they would appeal Mourinho's punishment to UEFA.

The club said the European football authority failed to give clarity in the legal process.

"Our coach does not have the full right to defend himself since the declarations which merited the opening of the case, and for which he has been sanctioned, are unknown," Madrid said in a statement.