Facundo Bernal banned for four matches after red card against Barcelona

Real Betis midfielder Facundo Bernal has been suspended for four matches after being sent off during his side’s 5-2 defeat by Barcelona.

The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) disciplinary committee issued the ban on Wednesday, following the incident in Saturday’s match.

Bernal was shown a red card in the 54th minute, shortly after Betis had pulled level at 2-2. According to the RFEF’s disciplinary report, the 23-year-old grabbed Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal by the neck before headbutting him twice.

The committee judged that Bernal had assaulted Lamine while the ball was out of play. Under the disciplinary code, that offence carries a suspension of between four and 12 matches, with Bernal receiving the minimum punishment.

Lamine had been booked for pushing Bernal before the incident that led to the midfielder’s dismissal. Barcelona then scored three more times, with Lamine providing the assist for Gabriel Jesus’ goal to make it 3-2.

Betis sporting director Manu Fajardo was also punished by the RFEF. He received a two-match suspension and a fine for conduct considered contrary to good sporting order.

Bernal will miss Betis’ LaLiga fixtures against Celta Vigo, Malaga and Elche, as well as the derby against Sevilla on November 22nd.

Betis are fourth in the LaLiga standings with 19 points.