Key Takeaways
- The Argentine shot-stopper must sit out thirteen matches following the violent incident at the end of Sunday’s derby
- Andrada attacked the Huesca skipper after receiving his marching orders for a second bookable offence in stoppage time
- The club has strongly condemned the behaviour and promised to take internal disciplinary action against the player
Real Zaragoza goalkeeper Esteban Andrada will miss the next thirteen matches after the Spanish Football Federation handed down a heavy punishment for his violent conduct during Sunday’s derby defeat to SD Huesca.
The Argentine received a red card in stoppage time for collecting a second yellow card. However, instead of leaving the pitch quietly, the 35-year-old sprinted across the field and struck Huesca captain Jorge Pulido in the face.
This shocking action sparked a large-scale brawl between both sets of players. Officials also sent off Huesca goalkeeper Dani Jimenez and Zaragoza defender Dani Tasende for their involvement in the melee.
The Royal Spanish Football Federation has now confirmed a twelve-match ban specifically for the assault, which they added to the standard one-game suspension for the initial red card. The incident occurred during the closing stages of a 1-0 victory for Huesca, a result that leaves both clubs battling relegation in Spain’s second tier.
Andrada has since issued a public apology for his actions. “I am extremely sorry for what occurred,” he stated on Sunday evening. “This creates a terrible image for the club, our supporters, and for me as a professional. I must apologise to Jorge Pulido as well. We are colleagues, and I completely lost my focus at that critical moment. I accept whatever punishment the authorities decide.”
The veteran keeper noted that this marked only the second sending-off of his entire career, with the previous dismissal coming for a handball outside the penalty area.
Real Zaragoza released an official statement on Sunday condemning the incident in strong terms. The club promised to take “appropriate disciplinary measures” against their player while apologising to supporters for the negative attention.