Real Madrid have suffered a major setback ahead of the decisive phase of the Champions League, as UEFA have decided to suspend Brazilian forward Rodrygo for two matches following the red card he received against Benfica.
Rodrygo was shown two yellow cards during stoppage time of the match in Lisbon after strongly protesting what he perceived as time-wasting by the Portuguese side. Although a dismissal for two yellow cards usually results in a one-match suspension, UEFA’s disciplinary committee opted for a harsher punishment due to insults and offensive language directed at the referee.
As a result, the 25-year-old will miss both legs of the Champions League play-off against Benfica, where Real Madrid will be fighting for qualification to the Round of 16.
The 4–2 defeat to José Mourinho’s side meant that Los Blancos failed to secure direct qualification, finishing outside the top eight in the league phase. Now, the clash with Benfica will take place without one of their main attacking weapons.
Rodrygo reacted to the punishment by issuing a public apology on social media, admitting that he lost control in a moment of tension.
The situation becomes even more complicated for Real Madrid, as Jude Bellingham and Éder Militão will also miss these encounters, adding further problems for coach Álvaro Arbeloa ahead of the decisive European challenge.
