WORLD CUP RED-CARD DECISION FOR BALOGUN, QUANSAH RAISE QUEATIONS AMONG EX-FIFA REFEREES

England's Jarell Quansah, U.S. striker Folarin Balogun get different fates after respective red cards

Folarin Balogun, right, of the United States fouls Bosnia's Tarik Muharemović, resulting in a red card for Balogun during their World Cup soccer match in California on July 1. (Jeff Chiu/The Associated Press)

FIFA's handling of two World Cup red-card cases came under renewed scrutiny on Thursday after England defender Jarell Quansah got a two-match suspension while U.S. striker Folarin Balogun avoided an immediate ban for a similar challenge.

That has left former international referees unable to reconcile the ‌two decisions.

Quansah was sent off in England's last round-of-16 victory over Mexico after a video review deemed his sliding studs-up challenge serious foul play. He was later handed a two-match ban that England's Football Association said it could not appeal.

Balogun, by contrast, was sent off during the United States' round-of-32 win over Bosnia but received a one-match suspension that world soccer's governing body FIFA later suspended.

Balogun's ban was suspended on probation for one year under Article 27 of the disciplinary code, FIFA said, although it has not publicly explained why it considered that sanction appropriate in his case.

The fact that U.S. President Donald Trump had personally urged FIFA President ⁠Gianni Infantino to review Balogun's ⁠case only intensified the controversy, even though FIFA insisted the ‌conversation played no part in its decision.

"FIFA have failed in their duty towards the game after they delayed the ban for Balogun. They allowed outside interference by the president," former referee Keith Hackett wrote on social media on Thursday.

"FIFA the major lawmaker are at fault. But both players committed Serious ⁠Foul Play challenges sanctioned by a red card."

'More important always is consistency'

Jonas Eriksson, who was a FIFA referee for 16 years from 2002, said if Balogun got a one-match suspension, Quansah should have as well, seeing their two on-field incidents were roughly equal in ‌terms of intensity and aggression.

"What everyone wants from referees, they want the correct decisions, yes, but more important always is consistency," Eriksson said.

"That you identify, OK, player A gets the same sanction as player B. Team A gets the same sanction as team B. You know, that's what you expect. And this is not the case when it comes to Quansah and Balogun."

Quansah leaves the field after receiving a red card during the World Cup match between Mexico and England in Mexico City on Sunday. (Ricardo Mazalan/The Associated Press)

British media quickly drew comparisons between the two cases, with The Independent running the headline: "FIFA ⁠confirms Jarell Quansah ban just days after Folarin Balogun reprieve."

Eriksson said the subsequent suspension of Balogun's match ban was ⁠never adequately explained, contributing to the furor.

Belgium unsuccessfully challenged Balogun's eligibility before their round-of-16 victory over the U.S., ⁠but ⁠FIFA has still not publicly explained why it decided to suspend the striker's ban under Article 27.

"If you're not able to communicate how they interpret the situation — was it an incorrect decision of the ⁠referee or was it the wrong application of the laws of the game — we don't know," said Eriksson, whose book House of Cards explores the "dirty game behind the game" for FIFA referees.

"It's just for you and me and for everybody else to guess. But with that in mind, the red card for Quansah and the suspension is for me, just, it's a mystery."

- Thompson Reuters 

US STRIKER GETS RED CARD, WHICH MEANS FREE PIZZAS WORTH $1 MILLION; HERE IS HOW

Balogun's dismissal means the striker will miss his country's next match and has also triggered reward for fans with free pizzas

Pizza giant Domino's is set to give out $1 million worth of free "emergency pizzas" after United States striker Folarin Balogun received a red card during his side's FIFA World Cup round of 32 match against Bosnia-Herzegovina, activating a promotion the pizza chain announced months before the tournament.

The campaign was first unveiled by the company in a press release issued on May 18 as part of its marketing push around the summer's international football tournament. The company announced that it would give away $1 million worth of "emergency pizzas" if any member of the US national team received a red card during the competition, saying the offer was intended to "soften the blow" for supporters after one of football's most costly on-field punishments.

Emergency Pizza is Domino's loyalty programme reward that allows eligible customers to claim a free medium two-topping pizza for use on a future order. The company said the red card promotion was designed to turn a disappointing moment for fans into what it described as "a delicious pick-me-up".

Alongside the giveaway, Domino's also launched a limited edition capsule collection in collaboration with football lifestyle brand Saturdays Football.

"We're as excited about the summer of soccer as fans are around the country! Whether you're planning to watch all the matches or perhaps you're playing pickup games of your own, Domino's has some fun ways to help you get ready," read the press statement dated May 18.

"Not only are we launching a capsule of co-branded merchandise from Saturdays Football, but we're also giving fans the chance to win free Emergency Pizzas.

Soccer gurus know the worst thing to happen in a game is for a player on the team you're rooting for to receive a red card. If that happens to the American squad, Domino's is here to help ease the pain by giving away Emergency Pizzas. It may not change the outcome of the match, but it can provide a delicious pick-me-up when it's needed most."

Balogun's evening took a dramatic turn after he scored his third goal of the World Cup to give the United States the lead before being sent off early in the second half. The dismissal means the striker will miss his country's next match and has also triggered Domino's pledge to reward fans with free pizzas.

With Balogun's sending-off now fulfilling the promotion's only condition, Domino's is expected to honour its $1 million giveaway while the United States prepares for its next World Cup fixture without one of its leading goalscorers.

How fans can claim the free pizza

The giveaway is not automatic. Customers had to register for the promotion at the website before the deadline of 11.59 pm ET on 10 June to be eligible.

Following a red card for a US player, Domino's said it would randomly select more than 60,000 winners, each of whom will receive a free medium two-topping Emergency Pizza.

The free pizza must be claimed by 2 August 2026, according to the company's promotional terms.

GARY LINEKER HAS A DISCIPLINARY RECORD OF NO YELLOW & RED CARDS OVER HIS 16 YEARS CAREER

 

COMPEONATO MINEIRO FINAL 🔥

 

CRUZEIRO VS. ATLÉTICO MG | AO VIVO | COMPEONATO MINEIRO FINAL

 

ADOVE TAKES A REFEREE'S RED CARD 😃 MILLAN VS. INTER WOMEN’S GAME

A viral video from a Milan vs. Inter women's football match shows a pigeon swooping down onto the pitch and snatching a red card from a referee's hand. 

This unexpected moment occurred after the referee had produced the red card during an intense moment in the derby, causing players and fans to burst into laughter as the bird flew away with it. 😃 

EVERTON BOSS DAVID MOYES BLASTS 'RIDICULOUS' RED CARD AND POINTS FINGER AT JACK GREALISH

Everton failed to beat rock bottom Wolves at Hill Dickinson Stadium with David Moyes left furious as the Toffees had both Michael Keane and Jack Grealish sent off by Thomas Kirk, officiating only his second Premier League game

Jack Grealish of Everton reacts to referee Thomas Kirk sending him off(Image: 2026 CameraSport)

Furious David Moyes described the decision to give Michael Keane a red card for hair-pulling as ‘ridiculous’. But the Everton manager did admit he was unhappy with Jack Grealish for following Keane to the dressing-room after collecting two yellow cards for dissent in the space of a few moments.

Young referee Thomas Kirk was sent to the video monitor by VAR Chris Kavanagh after Keane had challenged Tolu Arokodare late in the second half of the 1-1 draw with Wolves at Hill Dickinson Stadium. And as Keane appeared to tug Arokodare’s hair, Kirk decided he had no option but to dismiss the Everton centre-half, who had given his team a first half lead.

But Moyes fumed: “It is not violent, it is not forceful and it is not deliberate. So, all of those things I have said mean it shouldn’t have been a red card. I think it was a really poor decision to send him to the screen in the first place. (Marc) Cucurella got his hair pulled - violent conduct, a deliberate action, no problem with that.

“But this was in the game, on a ball coming up, and unless you have played the game, you might not understand. I have been a centre-half and there is no way I am jumping to out-jump a big centre forward and think .. ‘oh, by the way, I am going to out-jump him and, at the same time, I am going to pull his hair’

“I don’t know anyone on the planet who is good enough to think that way when they are jumping up. I thought it was a ridiculous decision by the referee but more by VAR. I thought the ridiculous bit came from VAR.

“If anyone grows their hair a bit longer, they have a chance of getting it pulled. Crazy. It was a ridiculous decision. Everybody was frustrated, everybody could not believe it.”

Moyes himself was so frustrated that he was booked by Kirk but the Everton manager was still annoyed with Grealish who was booked for dissent and was then dismissed for sarcastically applauding a Kirk decision. And when Moyes was asked if Grealish had been unprofessional and if he would be having words with the on-loan Manchester City man, he curtly replied: “Yes, I agree - and I already have done.”

Although Moyes is furious about the Keane decision, he was unsure whether the club would appeal against it, even though they now face being without their defender for three games. Grealish will miss one game for his two yellow cards.

Moyes, though, did admit he was not pleased with Everton’s performance prior to the Keane dismissal, which came in the 83rd minute - seven minutes before Grealish was sent off.

“Not great,” he said after a Mateus Mane strike had earned Wolves a point. “It was always going to be a difficult game but we could have gone two up before half-time. But we never really felt as though we got a grip of it.”

- Andy Dunn

GARY LINEKER IS THE ONLY FOOTBALLER IN HISTORY THAT HAS NEVER BEEN CARDED

Gary Lineker is the only footballer in history that has never been carded. 🟨🟥

Yes, you read that correctly, he didn't receive a single yellow or red card during his entire career. 😲

He played 654 matches over 16 years. 

#england #fblifestyle

HUGO EKITIKE EXPLAINS 'STUPID' AND 'NEEDLESS' RED CARD FOR TAKING OFF SHIRT

The 23-year-old said the ‘emotion got the better of me’ after coming under criticism from his manager Arne Slot

Hugo Ekitike said the “emotion got the better of me” after removing his shirt in celebration despite already being on a yellow card in Liverpool’s Carabao Cup victory over Southampton.

After scoring the winning goal in the 85th minute, Ekitike received a second yellow card for taking his shirt off and the striker will now be suspended for Liverpool’s trip to Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Ekitike has made a bright start to his Liverpool career since arriving from Eintracht Frankfurt for £69m, with the 23-year-old scoring three goals in his first five Premier League appearances for the Reds.

Slot removes his shirt after scoring Liverpool’s winner, despite being on a booking (Getty Images)

But this was a moment to forget, with his manager Arne Slot criticising his “stupid” and “needless” red card while also hitting out at the nature of Ekitike’s celebration as he held up his shirt rather than thanking Federico Chiesa for the assist.

Ekitike released an apology following the match, with the striker writing on social media: "I was so excited to help the team achieve another victory here in our home for my first Carabao Cup match.

"The emotion got the better of me. My apologies to all the Red family. Thanks to the fans who always support us and to my team-mates for this victory!"

Slot was annoyed that he will be without Ekitike for Saturday’s trip to Selhurst Park, particularly because his other new signing Alexander Isak is still working his way towards full fitness.

“Needless? Yes. And it was stupid,” Slot said. “I told him that if you score in the Champions League final in the 87th minute after outplaying three players and hitting it in the top corner I can maybe understand. He is like, ‘This is all about me, what did I do’.

“But I am old-fashioned, I’m 47 and old. I never played at this level but did score a few goals and if I scored a goal like this, I’d have turned around and walked up to Federico Chiesa and said, ‘This goal is all about you, this is not about me’.

“It’s always the best to control your emotions. If you can’t, do it in a way that doesn’t lead to a yellow card.”

- Jamie Braidwood

VIRGIL VAN DIJK SNATCHES CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WIN FOR LIVERPOOL AS DIEGO SIMEONE SEES RED

Champions League: Liverpool defeated Atletico Madrid 3-2

Virgil van Dijk's stoppage-time winner sparked a confrontation between Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone and Liverpool fans at Anfield as the Reds opened their Champions League campaign with a dramatic 3-2 victory.

Virgil van Dijk's stoppage-time winner sparked a confrontation between Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone and Liverpool fans at Anfield as the Reds opened their Champions League campaign with a dramatic 3-2 victory on Wednesday. Simeone was shown a red card in the aftermath of Van Dijk's 92nd-minute header after his side had come from 2-0 down to level thanks to a double from Marcos Llorente. Liverpool looked on course to wipe the floor with the struggling Spanish giants after scoring twice in the opening six minutes.

Mohamed Salah outshone Alexander Isak on his first Liverpool start as his free-kick deflected in off Andy Robertson before the Egyptian fired home himself.

Llorente was the scourge of Liverpool five years ago as Atletico came from 2-0 down to win 3-2 at Anfield in a contentious last-16 tie.

History was set to repeat itself until this time Liverpool grabbed the late winner that lit the fuse between the home support and the visiting manager.

Simeone appeared to be demanding the removal of one fan in particular even after he was shown a red card by Italian referee Maurizio Mariani.

"In the same way we fight against racism, we should look at this too because we don't have a right to respond and it is not easy to be insulted during the entire match," said Simeone.

"My reaction isn't justifiable but do you know what it is like to be insulted for 90 minutes?"

Liverpool have now won all five of their opening Premier League and Champions League games with winning goals after the 80th minute.

But Arne Slot was disappointed not to have had the three points wrapped up well before stoppage time after a flying start.

"A game like this should not have gone to a late game winner," said the Dutch coach.

"I understand that's the story of this game and the last five games but for me it is a different game than the ones we played before. We had so many great attacks today where we could have scored the third goal."

Salah on song

Isak made his debut after becoming the most expensive player in English football history following his 125 million pounds ($170 million) move from Newcastle.

Liverpool's triumvirate of big money forward signings, also including Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike, has at times left Salah on the fringes of the action in the opening weeks of the season.

But Salah was back to his best on Wednesday.

Robertson knew little about his goal as Salah's free-kick hit the Scotland captain to completely wrong-foot Jan Oblak.

Moments later Salah showed his speed, strength and quick feet to see off three Atletico challenges and slot in from Ryan Gravenberch's pass.

Salah was close to a stunning third after being sent clear by Wirtz's through ball as Liverpool looked set to run riot.

Atletico have endured a torrid start to the campaign, winning just one of their opening four La Liga matches.

Against the run of play the visitors suddenly had a lifeline in first-half stoppage time when Llorente prodded a shot into the far corner.

Liverpool were nearly made to rue a series of chances to put the result beyond doubt before Llorente struck again.

Salah came closest when he hit the inside of the post at the end of a brilliant counter-attack involving Wirtz, Ekitike and Dominik Szoboszlai.

Despite not dropping a point in the Premier League so far, chinks in Liverpool's armour have been exposed after a huge summer overhaul of the squad that cruised to the title last season.

Including the Community Shield defeat by Crystal Palace, Slot's men have now conceded two or more goals in four of their opening six matches of the campaign.

There was some fortune to Atletico's leveller as Llorente's volley deflected off Alexis Mac Allister to leave Alisson Becker helpless on 81 minutes.

But the rock solid defensive organisation of Simeone's best Atletico sides is lacking in his current crop and they failed to resist the Liverpool onslaught.

Van Dijk was left completely unmarked to power in Szoboszlai's corner, causing the Argentine's anger to boil over.

- Agence France-Presse

ANTHONY GORDON RELEASES STATEMENT AFTER NEWCASTLE RED CARD AGAINST LIVERPOOL

Anthony Gordon apologized after his red card against Liverpool, vowing to come back stronger as Newcastle face a setback with his looming suspension

Anthony Gordon was sent off for Newcastle against Liverpool (Image: 2025 Getty Images)

Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon has publicly issued an apology following his highly controversial red card in Monday’s Premier League clash with Liverpool at St. James’ Park.

The dismissal came in the closing moments of the first half after a rash tackle on Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, who recently made his feelings clear on the Alexander Isak transfer. The tackle saw Gordon’s studs leave visible marks on the defender’s calf.

Taking to Instagram shortly after the match, Gordon, who issued a wild warning to Liverpool pregame, began: “I want to sincerely apologise to my teammates and the fans. My intentions were pure. I was just trying to create energy in the game and I mistimed the tackle.”

He extended his apology specifically to Van Dijk, noting: “I also want to apologise to Virgil. I would never intend to tackle somebody like this on purpose. We spoke after and he knows that.”

References on the pitch confirmed the severity of the challenge. Van Dijk was seen clutching his calf, and cameras later captured two clear stud marks tracing down his leg. After initially showing a yellow card, referee Simon Hooper upgraded the decision to red for serious foul play upon VAR review.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe lamented the decision but defended his player’s intent. He stated that while the challenge was mistimed and came in “full-bloodedly,” there was “no intent or malice.” He called the red card “unfortunate” and expressed sympathy for Gordon.

In response to the red card, Gordon continued his message with optimism: “More importantly, I’m so proud of the time I spent on the pitch and how we played tonight. The atmosphere from you all is what makes SJP so special.”

“I love everything we stand for as a club and no more than right now. I’ll be back and better, the same as every other setback I’ve ever faced. See you soon.”

His apology highlights the emotional volatility of the contest. The fiery tackle further exacerbated Newcastle’s striker crisis, already reeling from the absence of Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson.

Down to ten men, Newcastle struck back with goals from Bruno Guimarães and William Osula to level the score, only to concede a stoppage-time winner from Liverpool debutant Rio Ngumoha.

Analysts, including former referee Mark Halsey, supported the red card, asserting the challenge met the criteria for serious foul play due to the force and point of contact. Legends like Alan Shearer were less sympathetic, describing the tackle as “stupid.”

Gordon is now set to miss up to three matches due to suspension, compounding Newcastle’s attacking woes. With injuries already decimating the roster, manager Howe must find solutions to a growing crisis.

- Sahil Kurup

- 

CHELSEA MAKE DECISION ON SELLING NICOLAS JACKSON AFTER LEAVING EN

Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson had a moment to forget at the Club World Cup.

Nicolas Jackson was sent off in Chelsea's surprise defeat to Flamengo (Image: GETTY)

Chelsea are reportedly open to selling Nicolas Jackson after his nightmare cameo in their Club World Cup defeat to Flamengo. Enzo Maresca brought him off the bench in the second half, replacing Liam Delap as the Blues' main striker. It turned out to be an awful decision, with Jackson only lasting four minutes before he was given his marching orders.

A reckless challenge on Flamengo defender Ayrton Lucas left the referee with little choice but to brandish his red card. Jackson was heavily criticised after the final whistle, with former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel branding him 'stupid' in a furious rant. Now, it has emerged that Jackson could soon leave Stamford Bridge with two Italian clubs thought to be circling.

He is 'no longer untouchable' at Chelsea and the west Londoners are open to cashing in on his signature, according to Sky Sport Italia. It is claimed that senior figures are 'considering a future without' Jackson after Juventus and Napoli registered their interest.

Both clubs are said to have reached out to Jackson's representatives to gauge his interest in moving to Serie A. They have asked to be kept informed about the player's situation, with his future in the Premier League seemingly uncertain.

Napoli are said to be eyeing several other attacking targets, including Liverpool forward Darwin Nunez and Udinese marksman Lorenzo Lucca. As a result, a concrete move for Jackson is more likely to come from Juventus.

Only time will tell if Jackson ends up leaving Chelsea over the coming weeks, with the 24-year-old having already issued a public apology for his red card against Flamengo.

On social media, he wrote: "To the club, the staff, my teammates, and all the fans watching, I let you down. Another red card... and honestly, I’m so angry at myself. I work hard every day to help the team not to put us in this kind of situation.

"I still don’t fully understand how it happened. But one thing is clear: it wasn’t intentional. Just a football moment that went the wrong way.

"No excuses. I take full responsibility. I’ll reflect, I’ll grow, and I’ll come back stronger for the badge and for everyone who believes in me. Sorry."

Maresca, meanwhile, took a diplomatic approach when asked if Jackson’s lack of discipline could see him permanently benched in favour of Delap.

"No, the red card has nothing to do with Nico’s future," said the Chelsea boss. "He had the first one against Newcastle when Liam was not even here and another one [against Flamengo].

"I’m not sure that it’s 100 per cent a red card, but the referee decided for that and Nico knows very well that in both situations [it] was not something good for the team."

- ARCHIE GRIGGS

CHELSEA: NICOLAS JACKSON ISSUES PUBLIC STATEMENT AFTER CLUB WORLD CUP RED CARD

Apology: Nicolas Jackson (AP)

Nicolas Jackson has issued an apology to “the club, the staff, my team-mates and all the fans” after being sent off during Chelsea’s loss to Flamengo in the Club World Cup.

Jackson, who was sent off against Newcastle in their third-last Premier League match, was brought on after after the hour mark with the scores level. Flamengo scored a second just one minute later and, three minutes after that Jackson raked his studs down the shin of Lucas Ayrton and was immediately dismissed.

Wallace Yan scored Flamengo’s third in a resounding display from the Brazilian giants, leaving the Blues needing a result against ES Tunis in their final Club World Cup group game.

It is the second time in weeks that Jackson has been shown a red card, having been dismissed against Newcastle in an important Premier League game in the race to qualify for the Champions League. Speaking on DAZN as a pundit, former Blues midfielder Mikel John Obi branded Jackson “stupid, stupid, stupid.”

The striker has now apologised. The statement read: “I want to say sorry. To the club, the staff, my teammates, and all the fans watching, I let you down.

“Another red card and honestly, I'm so angry at myself. I work hard every day to help the team not to put us in this kind of situation.

“I still don't fully understand how it happened. But one thing is clear: it wasn't intentional. Just a football moment that went the wrong way. No excuses. I take full responsibility.

“I'll reflect, I'll grow, and I'll come back stronger for the badge and for everyone who believes in me. Sorry. Sorry. Sorry.”

- Alex Young

FORMER TOTTEFNHAM STAR DELE ALLI DESTROYED BY CESC FABREGAS AFTER RED CARD 10 MINUTES INTO SERIE A DEBUT

Como head coach Cesc Fabregas hammered former Tottenham star Dele Alli after his player was sent off just 10 minutes into his debut for the Serie A outfit, although he certainly had sympathy from fans.

The ex-England international joined Como on a free transfer in January and came onto the pitch with 81 minutes on the clock in Saturday night’s clash against AC Milan, where he was facing his old Spurs colleague Kyle Walker.

It was his first appearance for any team in almost two years, last playing in February 2023 while on the books of Turkish side Besiktas.

However, Alli‘s outing was short-lived return as it turned into a nightmare when he was initially shown a yellow card after catching former Chelsea midfielder and current Milan star Ruben Loftus-Cheek on the back of the ankle.

After the initial booking, referee Matteo Marchetti then decided to upgrade it to a red following a VAR review, despite Walker doing his best to defend his former teammate.

Como were trailing 2-1 at the time, with former Arsenal midfielder Fabregas turning to the former Tottenham playmaker to find the goal that could have secured a point for his side.

Instead, Fabregas was left raging at the 28-year-old and had very little sympathy for his player, describing the incident involving Loftus-Cheek as a ‘tackle that hurts to watch’ in his post-match press conference.

In a post-match interview with DAZN, Fabregas admitted that Alli ‘perhaps didn’t deserve his opportunity’, having only actually trained with the Como squad for a fortnight as he tries to resurrect his career.

Speaking after the game, Fabregas said: “It was at that moment when Milan went 2-1 up and Sergi Roberto was meant to come on, but I’d prefer to give him another two weeks to train so he can be ready to start against Empoli.

“Dele Alli is a player who can score goals, he perhaps didn’t deserve this opportunity because he has only been working with us for two weeks and has a lot to improve. It is a grave mistake, one that we should not see from a player of his experience.

“It was a clear red card, there’s nothing to be said about that, he left the team down to 10 men during a crucial moment when we were pushing for 2-2. That is the most negative thing about this evening, but we keep going.”

Despite seeing red on his Serie A debut, some fans felt Alli was harshly treated as he made his first appearance in 748 days.

England defender Walker could clearly be seen begging with the referee not to send Alli off, but the writing was on the wall once the VAR replays slowed down the incident.

In defence of Alli, one fan wrote on X: “That’s a yellow. The force is so little. Slow motion makes it look 10x harder.”

Another said: “Even Walker was saying to not give him a red for it. That’s actually heartbreaking.”

While a third added: “Guy can’t catch a break. Hope this doesn’t ruin it for him.”

Another tweeted: “Feel for Dele, man has gone through so much s**t and now this.”

- Rob McCarthy

TEN-MAN REAL MADRID DRAWS AT OSASUNA AFTER BELLINGHAM RED CARD FOR CURSING THE REFEREE

Next up for Madrid is a home game against Manchester City on Wednesday when it will try to make good on its 3-2 win in their first meeting of the Champions League knockout rounds playoff

Osasuna’s Ante Budimir celebrates after scoring his side’s first goal during a Spanish La Liga soccer match between Osasuna and RealMadrid at El Sardar stadium in Pamplona, Spain, Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025. | Photo Credit: AP
 

Jude Bellingham's use of an English expletive to curse at the referee left Real Madrid a man down and unable to defend a lead as the La Liga leaders drew at Osasuna 1-1 on Saturday.

Kylian Mbappé put Madrid ahead in the 15th minute with his 11th goal in as many league games. But Madrid was outnumbered after Bellingham's red card for using an expletive while protesting the refereeing five minutes before halftime.

Osasuna pulled level after the referee awarded a penalty after a video review and booked Eduardo Camavinga for stomping the foot of Ante Budimir in the box. Budimir slotted the 58th-minute equalizer past Thibaut Courtois to unleash celebrations at El Sadar Stadium.

The draw in Pamplona put Madrid’s league lead in jeopardy. While Atletico Madrid failed to take advantage of the slip and stayed one point behind the frontrunners, Barcelona can pull level with its top rival if it beats Rayo Vallecano on Monday.

Next up for Madrid is a home game against Manchester City on Wednesday when it will try to make good on its 3-2 win in their first meeting of the Champions League knockout rounds playoff.

In what seemed to be a stretch of linguistic analysis, coach Carlo Ancelotti tried to defend his player by claiming that referee José Luis Munuera made a translation error of Bellingham’s use of an English expletive.

“Bellingham didn’t do anything that deserved a sending off,” Ancelotti said. “He said ‘(expletive) off,’ not ’(expletive) you.' I don’t think that was meant to be offensive.”

Munuera wrote in his refereeing report that Bellingham told him "from just a few meters away, ‘(expletive) you.’”

Bellingham said “I don’t want to go into details of what was said” but insisted he was unfairly treated, saying the referee made a translation error and that there was indeed a degree of difference between the expletive when combined with “off" or “you.”

 “It is clear that he made a mistake and there was a miscommunication," said the England midfielder, who got a two-game ban last season after receiving a red card for using an expletive in English protesting a ref's call.

Ancelotti was also shown a yellow card early after he complained excessively for what he thought was a handball by an Osasuna player in the host's area.

Following its loss at Espanyol, the powerhouse sent a scathing letter to Spain’s soccer federation to decry what it considered “adulterated” refereeing that favored other teams. The league president responded by saying that the 36-time champion had “lost its mind.”

The decisions by Munuera aggravated Madrid’s sense of grievance regarding the refereeing in La Liga.

"Things have happened in the last three games that everyone has seen,” Ancelotti said. “The VAR has reviewed plays in our area and not in the opponent’s area. … We just have to keep fighting. We played a good game today and we will try to do so again on Wednesday and in the next La Liga game.”

Mbappé had an up and down first few months while adapting to Madrid, but he has been scoring at ease in recent weeks and has 17 league goals, second only to the 19 by Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski.

Mbappé had an opportunity to bag an injury-time winner but Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera blocked his shot from an angle.

Osasuna, which beat Barcelona 4-2 in September when the Catalan club was leading the league, moved into seventh place.

Budimir’s goal let the Croatia striker equal an Osasuna club record of 57 career goals in La Liga, a mark set by Sabino Andonegui.

“It is always very special to enter the history of a club that is over 100 years old. I am very proud,” Budimir said.

Atletico Madrid remained a point behind Madrid after it was also reduced to 10 men and needed a late goal from substitute Alexander Sorloth to draw at home with Celta Vigo 1-1.

Pablo Barrios hurt Atletico’s chances when he saw a direct red card for a studs-first slide into the lower leg of Pablo Durán just seven minutes into the match.

"Borja Iglesias earned a penalty when fouled by Robin Le Normand in the area, sending substitute Iago Aspas to the spot to put Celta ahead in the 68th.

Sorloth salvaged a point for the hosts when the Norway striker won a long ball and rifled it home in the 81st.

“After the sending off (of Barrios), my players were gladiators,” coach Diego Simeone said, “because playing 90 minutes with a man down, do you know how hard that is?”

Also, Alaves drew at Leganes 3-3, while a struggling Valencia took a 1-1 draw at fifth-placed Villarreal in a regional derby.

 

REALLY BAD DECISION! | WHY WAS MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY GIVEN A RED CARD?

ARNE SLOT RESPONDS AS LIVERPOOL RAGE OVER LUCAS BERGVALL GOAL AFTER RED CARD REPRIEVE

Bergvall avoided a second yellow card two minutes before he struck an 86th-minute winner

Liverpool boss Arne Slot bemoaned the decision by referee Stuart Attwell not to send off Tottenham match-winner Lucas Bergvall moments before he struck the only goal of their Carabao Cup semi-final first leg.

The already-booked Bergvall avoided a second yellow card for a late tackle on Kostas Tsimikas as the Reds counter-attacked in the 84th minute.

Slot and his Liverpool players cut frustrated figures, but their fury increased within 120 seconds when Bergvall rifled home from Dominic Solanke’s lay-off to earn injury-hit Spurs a precious 1-0 victory ahead of next month’s second leg at Anfield.

Slot responds as Liverpool rage over Bergvall’s red card reprieve
Arne Slot criticised the refereeing
PA Wire

“When he didn’t give the second yellow, I didn’t think anyone would think it would have such a big impact 30 seconds later,” Slot said.

“I think the referee was probably also like, is this happening? For him, it was also far from ideal. I am 99.9 per cent sure that’s what he thinks because I can’t look in his head and he didn’t say how he felt.

“It was a good goal. Let that be clear, ball in behind, cut back cross and Bergvall stayed calm to score and finished it off. I don’t think you are interested in that but the moment before.”

Slot proceeded to highlight how opposite number Ange Postecoglou had shown his displeasure after Tottenham’s 2-1 loss at home to Newcastle on Saturday when the visitors benefited from Joelinton being able to handle the ball in the build-up to Anthony Gordon’s goal.

The Dutch coach continued: “I was saying I thought I saw Ange sat here and unhappy with decisions made (on Saturday). People say decisions even themselves out but I am not a believer of that. I believe you can be unlucky or lucky in decisions in a season.

“Yes, a decision went against them (on Saturday) and went in favour of them today, which, of course, is very unlucky for us.”

This was only the second defeat Slot has experienced since he replaced Jurgen Klopp this summer, but he acknowledged Liverpool had a big job to overturn a one-goal deficit in the second leg on February 6 to remain on course to successfully defend the trophy they won last February.

Slot added: “The good thing is there is a second leg but it’s a far from an ideal position for us. They are a good team and will probably have some players back for the second leg.”

AP Wire

While Liverpool were left to lick their wounds, Postecoglou beamed with pride after Tottenham’s patched-up team kept the Premier League leaders to a rare shut-out.

Spurs debutant Antonin Kinsky impressed days after his arrival and produced a fine stoppage-time stop to deny Darwin Nunez and earn the hosts a crucial victory despite being without 10 players, which increased when Rodrigo Bentancur left the pitch on a stretcher after a sickening head injury.

“Yeah, very proud. Again, we had to deal with some adversity tonight. We started the game really well I thought. Then obviously we lose Rodrigo, and in the way it happened, it was quite distressing,” Postecoglou said, with Bentancur later reported as conscious but taken to hospital for further checks

“Again, we had to compose ourselves and deal with that and re-organise. Super proud of the players. I have been all along.

“It hasn’t been through the want of trying that our results haven’t been as good, it’s certainly not been on them, it’s just that we haven’t been able to get the consistency to get the results that we need. Just proud that they feel good tonight, that they get the rewards of their hard work.

“Our fans as well, we’ve put them through a tough time, I thought they were outstanding tonight.

“We haven’t achieved anything, but I think just that feeling of having a victory against a top opponent in a big game, really pleased for everyone.”

Bentancur later confirmed in a post on his Instagram story, accompanied with a picture of him in hospital, that he was well.

“All good, guys! Thank you for the messages,” he wrote on his Instagram story.

“Congratulations for the victory boys!!!”

- George Sessions

BAYERN MÜNCHEN'S EMMANUEL NEUER GETS TWO-GAME BAN AFTER RWD CARD

Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer has been given a two-game German Cup ban for "unsportsmanlike conduct" in Tuesday's match against Bayer Leverkusen, the country's football federation (DFB) said on Thursday.

The 38-year-old goalkeeper received the first red card in his near two-decade-long career after he came off his line and knocked down Jeremie Frimpong.

Following the incident, Neuer was sent off by referee Harm Osmers in the 17th minute of Bayern's 1-0 loss to Leverkusen.

"The player is also banned from all of his club's other cup matches until the ban expires," DFB said in a statement.

Manuel Neuer was shown his first-ever red card on Tuesday. Stefan Matzke - sampics/Getty Images

"According to established DFB case law, the prevention of an obvious scoring chance by a non-serious foul without subsequent scoring usually entails a two-match suspension."

The ban only applies to domestic cup matches and since Bayern are out of the German Cup, Neuer would not serve it until next season.

Neuer's contract at Bayern also expires at the end of this season, and should he decide not to extend it, retire, or leave German football, he might never serve this ban.

- Reuters 

RED-CARD ESCAPE FOR ARSENAL BOSS MIKEL ARTETA SET TO LEAD TO LAW CHANGE

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) is set to change the law on coaches interfering with the ball in play after Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta wrongly escaped a red card in his side's Champions League defeat at Inter Milan.

Inter defender Matteo Darmian moved to play a ball which was going out for a throw-in, and Arteta picked it up before it had crossed the line. Referee Istvan Kovacs showed Arteta a yellow card, but by the Laws of the Game it should have been a red card.

This year, West Bromwich Albion manager Carlos Corberán and Kilmarnock boss Derek McInnes have both been sent off in similar circumstances, but after lengthy discussions at its Annual Business Meeting on Monday the IFAB recommended a change to the law.

While Kovacs' decision at San Siro was incorrect, the IFAB believes that when the sole intention of the coach is helping the game restart quickly -- as was the case with Arteta, Corberán and McInnes -- then a caution is a more suitable disciplinary outcome.

The change to the law, which would come in next summer, must be approved at the IFAB's AGM on March 1.

The only other law set to change covers the dropped ball. Currently, if a team has possession and a pass his the referee, they get the dropped ball regardless.

The proposal is that if the pass is wayward and obviously going to the other team, then the dropped ball should go to opposition.

- Dale Johnson, General Editor, ESPN FC

A RUGBY RULE UNACCESSIBLE