Key Takeaways
- Esteban Andrada suspended for 13 matches by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).
- The incident occurred during stoppage time of a fierce derby clash against Huesca.
- The 35-year-old goalkeeper has apologised for his actions and accepted full responsibility.
Real Zaragoza goalkeeper Esteban Andrada will serve a 13-match suspension following his dismissal for violent conduct during a heated derby clash against Huesca in the Spanish second tier.
The Argentine stopper received a straight red card for striking Huesca captain Jorge Pulido in the face during Sunday’s match. This occurred after he had already been sent off for receiving two yellow cards in stoppage time.
Rather than leaving the pitch, Andrada sprinted towards Pulido and punched him. This sparked a large brawl involving players from both sides. The referee also dismissed Huesca goalkeeper Dani Jimenez and Zaragoza defender Dani Tasende for their roles in the disturbance.
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) handed down a 12-match ban for the assault, plus the standard one-game suspension for his second bookable offence. The federation’s report described how Andrada ran and jumped at his opponent with aggression and used extreme force in the attack.
“The circumstances fully justify the highest possible punishment of a 12-match ban,” the RFEF stated. Both Andrada and the club face extra fines on top of the suspension.
The 35-year-old shot-stopper issued a public apology after the fixture. He admitted he lost concentration at the crucial moment and accepted full responsibility.
“I am deeply sorry for my actions,” Andrada said. “This behaviour does not reflect well on the team, the supporters, or my professional status. I want to apologise to Jorge Pulido because we are colleagues. It was entirely my fault.”
Zaragoza lost the match 1-0 and remain in the relegation zone alongside Huesca. The club issued a statement firmly criticising the events and confirmed they will take further internal action against the goalkeeper.