Jude Bellingham was sent off after full-time in Real Madrid’s 2-2 draw with Valencia for protesting referee Jesus Gil Manzano’s decision to end the game before his goal-bound header could be counted.
Los Blancos had come from two goals behind to draw level in Saturday night’s La Liga clash thanks to Vinicius Junior’s brace. Hugo Duro and Roman Yaremchuk had given the hosts a 2-0 lead inside 30 minutes.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side pushed for a winner in stoppage time and looked like they’d snared the victory when England international Bellingham glanced in Brahim Diaz’s cross.
However, Gil Manzano blew for full-time a second or two before Bellingham connected, sparking scenes of chaos as Madrid protested the decision.
Former Borussia Dortmund star Bellingham was sent off for his part, having reportedly told the referee: “It’s a f***ing goal, the ball is in the air! What the f*** is that!”
Manager Carlo Ancelotti confirmed the quip, stating post-game: “Bellingham told him ‘it’s a f***ing goal’, he didn’t insult him. We will see what the referee writes in the act.”
Madrid are expected to appeal the red card and will likely be notified of a decision from the Spanish Football Federation’s Competition Committee next week ahead of their home clash with Celta Vigo. There is also the possibility of Bellingham’s ban being extended, depending on what is included in Gil Manzano’s report.
The draw stretched Madrid’s lead over second-placed Girona to seven points at the top of La Liga, though the surprise title challengers could reduce that gap on Sunday when they visit Mallorca.
While Bellingham could be banned for his side’s next league outing against Celta, he will be available for Wednesday’s Champions League second leg in the last 16 against RB Leipzig, having successfully returned from injury.