Dean Huijsen Suspended for One Match After Madrid Derby Red Card
Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen will miss at least one game following his direct red card in the recent Madrid derby against Atlético Madrid. The young center-back’s dismissal has raised discussions around the incident, the subsequent appeal, and its impact on upcoming Real Madrid matches.
The Incident: Red Card in the Madrid Derby
During the highly charged Madrid derby at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, Huijsen was sent off in the 52nd minute. The referee, Miguel Ángel Ortiz Arias, initially issued a yellow card after Huijsen pulled down Atlético’s Giuliano Simeone inside the penalty area. However, after consulting the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), the referee upgraded the booking to a straight red card.
The decision came because Huijsen denied an obvious goal-scoring opportunity (DOGSO) without making any attempt to play the ball. Typically, this kind of offense is seen as serious enough to warrant an immediate sending off, emphasizing the gravity of the challenge.
Appeal Process and Rejection
Following the incident, Real Madrid’s management launched an appeal in hopes of overturning the red card. Reports suggested the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) might have privately or even publicly conceded that the decision did not fully meet the DOGSO criteria, which spurred optimism among Madrid fans.
Despite this, the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) Appeals Committee officially rejected the appeal. This means Huijsen’s suspension for at least one match stands firmly.
What This Means for Real Madrid
Matches Missed
Huijsen will serve a minimum one-match ban. This suspension rules him out of Real Madrid’s next La Liga game against RCD Espanyol. Missing a defender of his potential depth and skill is a challenge for the team’s defensive setup.
Defensive Adjustments Expected
With the young center-back sidelined, Real Madrid’s head coach José Mourinho is anticipated to adjust his defensive lineup. Veteran defender Antonio Rüdiger is likely to return to the starting eleven alongside Ibrahima Konaté. This shift could affect team dynamics but also provides an opportunity for experienced players to step up.
Key Takeaways
- Dean Huijsen was sent off with a direct red card for DOGSO during the Madrid derby.
- VAR review escalated his initial yellow card to a red due to the nature of the foul.
- Real Madrid’s appeal was rejected despite questions about the call’s adherence to DOGSO rules.
- Huijsen will miss the next La Liga match against RCD Espanyol.
- Defensive changes will see Antonio Rüdiger likely rejoin the starting lineup.
This incident highlights the fine margins and intense scrutiny involved in high-profile matches. While the decision to suspend Dean Huijsen was upheld, it brings attention to the complex role VAR plays in modern football, especially in critical moments such as derbies. Real Madrid will look to bounce back and manage their squad depth effectively in Huijsen’s absence.
