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Vinicius Junior Sent Off After VAR-Reviewed Push on Valencia Goalkeeper; Real Madrid to Appeal Two-Match Ban

Jan 4, 2025, 06:56 AM

Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior was sent off during a La Liga match against Valencia after pushing the opposition goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski in the face. The incident occurred in the 79th minute and was reviewed by VAR, leading to a direct red card for Vinicius. Following the red card, Vinicius appeared to raise his arm towards referee Cesar Soto Grado but was restrained by teammates and staff. Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti stated post-match that the club would appeal the red card, arguing that it should have been a yellow card for both Vinicius and Dimitrievski. Vinicius later apologized on social media, expressing regret and thanking his team. The Brazilian forward faces a potential suspension, with the club expecting a two-match ban, which would see him miss upcoming matches in the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup. This is the second time Vinicius has been sent off at Valencia's Mestalla stadium, the first being in May 2023 amid racist abuse from fans.