Published on Apr 29, 2025
Real Madrid's turbulent Copa del Rey final against Barcelona has sparked major disciplinary fallout, with Antonio Rüdiger receiving a six-match ban while Jude Bellingham’s controversial red card has been rescinded. The Spanish Football Federation handed Rüdiger the suspension after he was sent off in the 120th minute of the final for throwing an object from the technical area toward the referee, Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea. The defender had to be physically restrained by coaching staff, and the incident was classified as a serious offense under federation guidelines. As a result, Rüdiger will now miss six domestic matches across La Liga and Copa del Rey competitions.
The German defender, who has also undergone knee surgery for a meniscus injury, is now expected to be sidelined for the remainder of the season. While his recovery could align with the FIFA Club World Cup, his availability for international duty remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham has been cleared of wrongdoing after his own post-match red card was reviewed and overturned. The midfielder was initially dismissed for allegedly approaching the referee with aggression after the final whistle. However, Real Madrid provided video evidence showing that Bellingham did not behave in an aggressive manner and was not restrained by teammates, contradicting the referee’s report. The disciplinary committee acknowledged a clear error in the officiating and officially revoked the red card, allowing Bellingham to avoid suspension.
Adding to Madrid’s disciplinary woes, Lucas Vázquez has been issued a two-match ban for entering the pitch to confront the referee during the final’s chaotic conclusion. His suspension will be served in next season’s Copa del Rey.
The disciplinary actions follow Real Madrid’s dramatic 3-2 extra-time defeat to Barcelona, a final filled with late-game controversy and emotional outbursts. While Bellingham escapes punishment, the loss of Rüdiger and Vázquez further complicates Madrid’s squad availability as they close out a demanding season. The fallout underscores the growing tensions between the Spanish giants in what has been a fiercely contested and emotionally charged rivalry.
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