Why Real Madrid’s Rudiger Could Be Suspended for 4 to 12 Matches
Antonio Rudiger Faces Potential 4-12 Match Suspension After Copa del Rey Final Drama
All eyes are on Antonio Rudiger as reports suggest the German defender could be handed a 4 to 12 match ban, potentially ruling him out for the rest of Real Madrid’s season.
Following a heated Copa del Rey final between Barcelona and Real Madrid, Rudiger’s actions from the bench have come under serious scrutiny.
In the closing moments of Madrid’s 3-2 defeat, tensions flared when a decision favored Barcelona during a Kylian Mbappe attack. Visibly furious, Rudiger allegedly threw an ice-like object toward the referee, resulting in a straight red card. Lucas Vazquez and Jude Bellingham were also dismissed for confronting officials over the same incident.
Rudiger, who had been substituted earlier due to fatigue — as explained by manager Carlo Ancelotti — had to be physically restrained by teammates to prevent further confrontation with the referee.
Reports indicate he could now face a suspension ranging from four to twelve games. Additional footage appears to show Rudiger attempting to throw more ice bags but being stopped by those around him.
What Unfolded Between Real Madrid Players and Referees After the Final?
The aftermath of the Barcelona vs. Real Madrid Copa del Rey final was chaotic, with multiple Real Madrid players clashing with the match officials.
In his official report, the referee detailed Rudiger’s aggressive behavior, stating the object thrown narrowly missed him. Vazquez was penalized for storming onto the pitch to protest the decision, while Bellingham approached the referees after the match in a visibly aggressive manner, needing to be restrained by teammates.
“In the 120th minute, player (22) Rudiger, Antonio, was sent off for the following reason: For throwing an object from the technical area, which missed me. After being shown the red card, he had to be restrained by several members of the coaching staff, displaying an aggressive attitude.”
“In the 120th minute, player (17) Vazquez Iglesias, Lucas, was sent off for the following reason: For protesting one of our decisions, entering the field of play for several meters, making gestures of disagreement.”
“In the 999th minute, player (5) Bellingham, Jude Victor William, was sent off for the following reason: After the end of the match, he approached our position in an aggressive attitude, having to be restrained by his teammates.”
The incidents underline the fiery ending to a fiercely contested Copa del Rey final.
