Real Madrid will file an appeal against the expulsion of Vini Jr. in the victory over Valencia, this Friday (3), at the Mestalla. The information was given by coach Carlo Ancelotti in the post-match press conference.
It was the Brazilian’s first match at Valencia’s stadium since his arrival in 2023, by fans of the home team.
the Brazilian was provoked by Macedonian goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski, who pulled him while he was kneeling. Vini retaliated by pushing his opponent in the face.
VAR called referee César Soto to review the move, and Vini Jr. ended up being sent off, while Dimitrievski only received a yellow card.
“We didn’t think it was a red card… But the team reacted to this difficulty. We’re going to appeal, but I don’t know if they (LaLiga) will accept it”, pondered Ancelotti.
Bellingham misses penalty, but “save” Real Madrid
Valencia, who , opened the scoring in the 27th minute of the first half, with Hugo Duro taking advantage of a rebound after a great save from Courtois.
Real Madrid had the chance to equalize just 10 minutes into the final stage, with a penalty kick. Even with competition from Mbappé and Vini, Bellingham took the ball, made a stop, but hit the post.
Mbappé tied the game shortly after, but was in an irregular position, and the move was disallowed. After Vini’s expulsion, however, Bellingham seems to have decided to redeem his friend and himself.
He provided the assist for the equalizer, scored by Modric, six minutes after Vini’s expulsion. In the 50th minute of the final stage, Bellingham took advantage of Valencia’s error and moved Dimitrievski to guarantee the turnaround.
Ancelotti praises Bellingham
At the press conference, in addition to the topic of Vini Jr., Ancelotti also commented on Jude Bellingham’s performance, which went from the missed penalty to starring in the comeback.
“It bothers me that we missed three penalties (in the league). I think I need to take responsibility for choosing who will take the penalty”, said the Italian coach.
“Bellingham didn’t lose hope after missing the penalty, it gave him extra motivation. Those last 30 minutes can only be done by him. He made an extraordinary effort.”
