Madrid derby: red card for Federico Valverde, Real Madrid makes a decision

Europe 23 March 2026 at 14:27

Joshua SOSSOU

News Editor

22.03.26 FT LaLiga Spain

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Following Federico Valverde's sending off during the derby win against Atlético de Madrid last night (3-2), Real Madrid has decided to appeal.

Los Blancos are determined to do everything possible to prevent Valverde from serving a two-match suspension in La Liga, according to Cope. Such a ban would see the Uruguayan international miss the clashes with Mallorca and Girona.

Real Madrid plans to use video footage they believe contradicts the referee’s report. According to the club, Valverde was genuinely attempting to play the ball, without any violent intent toward Alex Baena, and the incident did not constitute a clear goal-scoring opportunity.

In his post-match report, referee José Luis Munuera Montero described the challenge as one made with "excessive force" instead.

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