Real Madrid News
Real Madrid veteran could be set for a historic 4-12 match ban after clash with referee
The Copa Del Rey final between Real Madrid and Barcelona was one for the ages.
The game – played over 120 minutes – saw unrivalled drama, suspense and controversy, with Barcelona ultimately securing the prized trophy thanks to a late goal from Jules Kounde.
The biggest controversy in the game happened after the final whistle when Antonio Rudiger was caught on camera, livid with the referees.
The frustration boiled over when referee De Burgos Bengoetxea blew the final whistle following a foul by Kylian Mbappe on Eric García.
The German defender, unable to contain his anger, was seen trying to throw an ice pack at the referee – a scene that quickly escalated before teammates intervened to hold him back.
Rudiger could get a 4-12 match ban
Rudiger’s anger at the referee and his attempt to throw an ice pack at the referee could land him in big trouble.
According to Carrusel Deportivo, Rüdiger’s actions could fall under Article 101 of the disciplinary code.
This regulation deals with serious offenses against match officials and carries a suspension ranging from 4 to 12 matches.
If confirmed by the competition committee, it would be one of the harshest bans a Real Madrid player has faced in recent memory.
Today could prove to be an important day for Rudiger, knowing the final confirmation regarding his ban could come anytime of the day.
The veteran defender, though, will get the backing of Real Madrid, who are more than likely to appeal against any sort of suspension.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
