Bernal Banned for Four Matches for Headbutting Yamal

Real Betis midfielder Facundo Bernal has been handed a four-match suspension by the Royal Spanish Football Federation after being sent off for headbutting Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal.

The incident occurred during Saturday’s La Liga match, in which Betis suffered a 5-2 defeat to Barcelona. Shortly after Betis equalised at 2-2, players from both sides became involved in a confrontation following a foul.

During the altercation, Bernal grabbed Yamal by the neck and headbutted him twice. The referee showed the midfielder a straight red card in the 54th minute.

Bernal was found guilty of striking an opponent while play was stopped. Under the relevant rules, such an offence can result in a suspension of four to 12 matches, meaning the 23-year-old Uruguayan midfielder received the minimum penalty.

Before the incident, Yamal had received a yellow card for pushing Bernal. Barcelona went on to score three more goals to secure a 5-2 victory.

The suspension means Bernal will miss Betis’ La Liga matches against Celta Vigo, Malaga, Elche and Sevilla.

Betis are fourth in the league with 19 points from nine matches, having won six and drawn one. Barcelona top the table with 27 points after winning all nine of their matches.