'Complete loss of control' - keeper punches rival
Real Zaragoza goalkeeper Esteban Andrada punched Huesca captain Jorge Pulido after being sent off in a heated Spanish second division game.
Real Zaragoza goalkeeper Esteban Andrada is facing severe punishment for punching an opponent in a heated derby match with Huesca in Spain's second division - after he had already been sent off. The Argentine received a second yellow card for pushing over a Huesca player in stoppage time at the end of a fiery relegation battle. He then sprinted towards Huesca captain Jorge Pulido and punched him in the face.
That led to a mass brawl, resulting in Huesca keeper Dani Jimenez and Zaragoza's Dani Tasende also being dismissed. Andrada later issued an apology, saying he "lost focus" and will accept any punishment that comes his way. Zaragoza also released a statement saying it "strongly condemns what happened" and will "take the appropriate disciplinary measures".
"We witnessed scenes unbecoming of this sport and which should never have occurred," the statement added. "These events do not represent the values โโof Real Zaragoza or its fans, who throughout its history have been characterized by sportsmanship, courage, and respect for the opponent. "We are role models and examples for many fans, especially children, who cheer us on at every match and aspire to one day become one of their idols.
"That is why these regrettable images should never have been seen. " Andrada, 35, who has four caps for Argentina, is on loan at Zaragoza from Mexican club Monterrey. "The truth is I'm very, very sorry for what happened," he said.