Will Antonio Rudiger play against Celta Vigo in La Liga?
Antonio Rudiger was sent off from the bench in what was an ill-tempered end to Real Madrid’s 3-2 loss to Barcelona in the final of the Copa del Rey. Pedri had scored a screamer to give Barcelona the lead in a comfortable first half from the Blaugrana. After the incident, Rudiger is set to face some serious consequences.. Hence, the question arises, will Rudiger play next match?
Real won in the second half and scored through Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni to take the lead. Barca struck back late through Ferran Torres, who took full advantage of some miscommunication between Thibaut Courtois and Antonio Rudiger. Deep into extra time, Jules Kounde beat Brahim Diaz to a loose pass outside the area and lashed home the winner.
Rudiger was also in some trouble physically, playing with strapping on his knees before asking to be taken off. Once on the bench, he reacted angrily to a late refereeing call that went in Barcelona’s favour.
Rudiger, Vinicius Jr and Lucas Vazquez looked enraged beyond belief at the decision, with the former ending up chucking ice in the direction of referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea. The German was sent off, as was Lucas Vazquez and Jude Bellingham after the game. The biggest question that arises is, will Rudiger get banned?
Watch Incident
How many matches can Rudiger get banned for?
Rudiger is set for a lengthy spell outside the side with a ban. The rumour is that he will be suspended for somewhere around 4-12 games. Most non-Real Madrid fans seem to want exemplary punishment and do not want to see the German play again this season. If that happens, will Antonio Rudiger play against Celta Vigo?
Attempting to attack the referee reflectly poorly on Real again after they drew flak for their antics to get the referee changed for the final. In this particular instance, Rudiger looked like he was in an extreme fit of rage and had to be controlled by multiple members of the Real Madrid staff. He will almost certainly play no part against Celta Vigo next week or against Barcelona in the league Clasico in 2 weeks time.
Rudiger today released a statement about his actions. It reads: “There’s no excuse for my behaviour last night. I’m very sorry for that. We played a very good game from the 2nd half on. After 111 minutes, I was not able to help my team anymore, and before the final whistle, I made a mistake. Sorry again to the referee and to everyone I have disappointed last night.”
The referee’s report of the game after the incident said that the red was given, “For throwing an object from the technical area, which did not reach me. After being shown the red card, he had to be held back by various members of the coaching staff, while he showed an aggressive attitude”.
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