Betis’ Antony Faces Suspension After Late Red Card against Girona

Sevilla, Spain – Real Betis winger Antony will miss the upcoming derby against Sevilla after receiving a red card in the dying minutes of the match against Girona on Sunday. The incident occurred as Antony attempted a bicycle kick, inadvertently kicking Girona’s Joel Roca in the face.

The match took place at La Cartuja Stadium, where tensions were high for Antony, who had already been warned about accumulating yellow cards. Initially, referee Iosu Galech issued a yellow card, but after a VAR review, it was upgraded to a red.

Pellegrini, the manager of Betis, described the situation as a significant loss for the team, especially with the derby approaching. “It is tough before such an important match,” Pellegrini said. “I haven’t seen the replay, but it looked like Antony didn’t intend to harm anyone.”

Isco, another key player, shared his thoughts on Antony’s expulsion, stating, “It didn’t seem intentional. It’s tough for us as a team.” Betis is currently appealing the decision in hopes of reducing Antony’s punishment.

The disciplinary committee of the Royal Spanish Football Federation will review the club’s appeal. If successful, Antony may be cleared to participate in the derby at Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán next weekend.

Meanwhile, Betis struggled to secure a victory against Girona, leaving them with critical decisions to make for the upcoming match. The club’s legal team is already reviewing footage and documentation from the match as they prepare their case.