After slapping Cordoba defender Jose Angel Crespo, kicking Edimar and landing another punch on Crespo, Cristiano Ronaldo has been banned for two games. Hence, he will only miss league clashes against Real Sociedad and Sevilla but return for the titanic Madrid Derby on February 7th, two days after his 30th birthday. The two-match ban sounds as a controversial call due to the importance of Real Madrid's third game on their upcoming agenda.
Neymar had suggested a three-game suspension for the recent Ballon d’Or winner, others suggested up to twelve games. The Spanish Football Association Disciplinary Committee has opted for two. In the report of the referee Alejando Hernández, there was no indication of the slap on Crespo.
When it comes to suspensions, Ronaldo has a clear disadvantage over Lionel Messi. Leo has only been sent off once with Argentina. CR7, meanwhile, adds a total of nine red cards in his career. Sergio Ramos currently holds La Liga's record with 19 suspensions.
It can be considered as a cheap punishment for the world’s best soccer player at the moment. Having the chance to be back in action for the game against Atlético Madrid can be a relief for both the player and his teammates.
Currently Real Madrid leads La Liga with 48 points in 19 games played. Barcelona is second with 47 points in 20 matches. The defending champions, Los Colchoneros, are in third with 44 points.
The last time Ronaldo saw a red card was in a similar incident against Athletic Bilbao one year ago. Back then, he was issued a three-game suspension which the club was not able to appeal. Los Blancos are not expected to fight the decision by the committee.
WATCH what Cristiano Ronaldo did to earn a two-game suspension
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