Real Madrid secured a victory in Sunday’s Madrid derby, but it came at the cost of losing Fede Valverde due to a suspension. The Uruguayan midfielder received a red card at the Bernabeu following a vigorous tackle on Alex Baena of Atletico Madrid, which now puts him on the sidelines for an upcoming match.
The Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) confirmed to the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) that referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero’s call was correct, passing the responsibility to the Competition Committee to determine Valverde’s sanction. Their verdict, announced this Wednesday, is expected to bring relief to Real Madrid.
According to Diario AS, the Committee has imposed a one-match suspension on Valverde. While the serious nature of the foul could have led to a two-game ban, the panel opted for the lightest possible punishment.
Real Madrid’s Appeal Rejected by Competition Committee
Real Madrid had contested Valverde’s red card, arguing that he was attempting to play the ball but misjudged the tackle. Nevertheless, the Competition Committee disagreed, upholding Munuera Montero’s original assessment.
Consequently, Valverde will miss Real Madrid’s initial match post-international break against Mallorca at Son Moix. He will, however, be available for the following week’s fixture against Girona, though his participation might be limited given it falls between their two Champions League quarter-final legs against the same opponent.
Valverde’s absence for the Mallorca trip is a setback for Real Madrid, particularly considering his recent stellar form. Despite this, the club can be relieved that the suspension is limited to a single match, as similar incidents had previously resulted in a two-game ban.
