The Spanish football federation has handed Real Zaragoza goalkeeper Esteban Andrada a 13-match suspension following a violent incident during a second-tier derby against Huesca last Sunday.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the federation’s disciplinary committee said the Argentina international, on loan from Mexican club Monterrey, was punished after being sent off and subsequently “attacking” Huesca captain Jorge Pulido during stoppage time.
According to the ruling, Andrada received a 12-match ban specifically for the punch and an additional one-match suspension for the red card he initially picked up during the game. He was also fined alongside his club.
The incident occurred after Andrada shoved Pulido to the ground and was shown a second yellow card. He then reportedly ran back to strike the Huesca defender, triggering a pitch brawl involving players from both sides.
The 35-year-old later issued an apology, admitting his behaviour was unacceptable.
“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,” Andrada said.
In the chaotic aftermath of the match, Huesca goalkeeper Dani Jiménez and Zaragoza’s Dani Tasende were also sent off. Jiménez received a four-match ban, while Tasende was suspended for two matches. Huesca went on to secure a 1-0 victory.
Real Zaragoza condemned the incident, describing the scenes as “unbecoming of the sport and which should never have occurred.”
