Real Zaragoza goalkeeper Esteban Andrada is facing a lengthy suspension after punching an opponent during a heated Segunda División derby against SD Huesca.
The incident happened deep into stoppage time of Zaragoza’s 1-0 defeat to Huesca in a tense relegation battle on Sunday.
Huesca secured victory through Óscar Sielva’s goal, but the closing moments were overshadowed by chaos on the pitch.
Andrada was first shown a second yellow card after pushing over a Huesca player, which led to his dismissal.
Moments after being sent off, the Argentine goalkeeper ran back onto the pitch and punched Huesca captain Jorge Pulido in the face, triggering a mass confrontation between players from both sides.
The incident also led to red cards for Huesca goalkeeper Dani Jiménez and Zaragoza’s Dani Tasende.
Reacting after the match, Andrada apologised for his actions and accepted responsibility.
He said: “The truth is I’m very, very sorry for what happened.
“It’s not a good image for the club, for the fans, and especially not for a professional like myself. So, I’m very sorry.”
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The 35-year-old, who is on loan at Zaragoza from Mexican club Monterrey, said the moment was a complete lapse in judgment.
He said: “Throughout my career, I’ve only had one red card, and that was for a handball outside the penalty area.
“I also want to apologize to Jorge Pulido because we are colleagues, and honestly, it was my fault, I lost focus at that moment, and well, I am here for whatever consequences the league may give me.”
Real Zaragoza also condemned the incident in an official statement, saying the club would take disciplinary action.
The club said: “We witnessed scenes unbecoming of this sport and which should never have occurred.
“These events do not represent the values of Real Zaragoza or its fans, who throughout its history have been characterized by sportsmanship, courage, and respect for the opponent.”
It added: “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.”
Huesca manager José Luis described the incident as a total loss of control.
He said: “It’s hard to explain. I think it’s a complete loss of control.
“I can put myself in their shoes, given what was at stake and all. But it’s unjustifiable.”
He added: “It’s ugly.
“This was supposed to be a celebration of Aragonese football.
“I’d like people to talk about the match, even though it was ugly, with little play but a lot of hard work.”
Zaragoza head coach David Navarro also apologised after the game.
He said: “There are lines we can’t cross.”
Both Zaragoza and Huesca remain in the relegation zone with five matches left in the season.
