Real Madrid’s appeal against Dean Huijsen’s red card against Real Sociedad has been rejected, with the 20-year-old defender handed a one-match ban. The decision leaves Xabi Alonso short of defensive options as Antonio Rudiger and Trent Alexander-Arnold are both sidelined. Madrid will now turn to the Appeals Committee in a last-ditch effort to clear Huijsen for Saturday’s clash with Espanyol.
Huijsen banned after appeal rejected
According to a report by Huijsen will miss Real Madrid’s next La Liga match after the Spanish Football Federation’s Competition Committee upheld his red card from Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Sociedad. The Spain international was dismissed for pulling down Mikel Oyarzabal in the 32nd minute, with referee Jesus Gil Manzano ruling the foul denied a clear goalscoring chance. Madrid’s initial appeal was dismissed on Wednesday.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportMadrid frustration over refereeing call
The club had argued that Oyarzabal was still around 40 metres from goal and that Eder Militao was close to covering the attack, making the dismissal excessive. Their complaint was further fuelled by the CTA’s post-match review on ‘Review Time,’ which suggested a yellow card would have been a more appropriate sanction. Despite that analysis, the disciplinary body stood by the referee’s original interpretation.
Madrid to take appeal higher
Madrid have reportedly confirmed they will escalate the case to the Appeals Committee in an attempt to overturn the ban before Saturday. If unsuccessful, Huijsen will miss the Espanyol clash, adding to Alonso’s mounting selection problems. The disciplinary decision comes amid growing tensions between Madrid and Spain’s refereeing body.
Getty Images SportAlonso’s defensive crisis deepens
The ruling leaves Alonso in a difficult position ahead of Saturday’s game against Espanyol. Antonio Rudiger is sidelined with a muscle injury while Trent Alexander-Arnold limped off during the Champions League win over Marseille. Without Huijsen, Madrid may have to turn to fringe players like David Alaba or Rafa Marín to partner Eder Militao at the back.