Brazilian has been suspended for abusive language against referee in the last game
Real Madrid forward Rodrygo has been handed a two-match ban in European games that means he will miss the two legs of the playoff tie against Benfica.
Uefa gave the Brazilian the ban for abusive language towards the referee in Madrid’s last league phase game, also against Benfica. Rodrygo was sent off after receiving two yellow cards within the space of a minute. Benfica went ahead to beat Madrid to deny them automatic qualification to the last 16, while a sensational 98th-minute header by goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin to bring the score to 4-2 also sent the Portuguese side into the playoffs.
After the game Rodrygo apologised to Madrid fans on social media.
“Yesterday, I got carried away in the heat of the moment when complaining about time wasting,” Rodrygo said. “That’s not how I usually behave.
“I had never been sent off playing for Real Madrid and I am aware of the consequences. I apologise to the fans, the club, my teammates and the coach. We will continue to stand together and fight for this badge and for this Champions League.”
