Antonio Rudiger Faces Suspension After Copa Del Rey Final Clash Against Referee

Real Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger is at risk of receiving a major suspension after an incident involving referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea during the intense Copa del Rey final, where Barcelona emerged victorious with a 3-2 win on Saturday night.

The dramatic match saw Jules Kounde net the decisive goal in extra time, handing Barcelona the Copa del Rey trophy in a fiercely contested showdown. Learn more about Copa del Rey Finals.

Following Kounde’s crucial strike, emotions flared on the Real Madrid bench during the game’s final moments.

Antonio Rudiger, in a fit of frustration, sought to confront referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea. Real Madrid stars Lucas Vazquez and Vinicius Junior stormed onto the pitch, gesturing aggressively at the official. Moments later, Rudiger hurled an ice cube from the sidelines toward the pitch, near the area where manager Carlo Ancelotti stood.

Reacting swiftly, referee De Burgos Bengoetxea issued red cards to both Vazquez and Rudiger. The German defender, still heated, attempted to approach the referee but was restrained by teammates Ferland Mendy, Jesus Vallejo, and four other personnel who intervened to diffuse the situation.

In his official match report submitted to the Spanish Football Federation, De Burgos Bengoetxea stated Rudiger threw “an object which missed me.” Additionally, Jude Bellingham was shown a red card after the match ended due to displaying an “aggressive attitude” towards the officiating team.

Real Madrid’s turbulent night could lead to serious disciplinary consequences as investigations proceed. Meanwhile, Barcelona celebrates yet another Copa del Rey title in a season full of highs.

For a deeper analysis of football match controversies, read this guide on football disciplinary rules.