A second division soccer match in Spain looked more like a minor league hockey match after a goalkeeper for LaLiga 2 side Real Zaragoza punched an opposing player in the face during stoppage time.
The brawl occurred during a derby match between Real Zaragoza and Huesca in the closing moments of the match, Huesca leading 1-0.
Zaragoza goalkeeper Esteban Andrada had just gotten his second yellow card of the match after he pushed a Huesca player, which led to players on Huesca becoming irate on the sideline.
After the ref gave him the yellow card, and subsequent red, Andrada sprinted over toward Huesca captain Jorge Pulido and threw a right hook right into his face.
Andrada was grabbed by other Huesca players, and things escalated further as officials, coaches, security and uniformed police officers tried to gain control of the situation.
Huesca goalie Dani Jimenez and Zaragoza’s Dani Tasende were also kicked out of the match as a result of the brawl, according to BBC Sport.
Following the match, Real Zaragoza released a statement condemning the actions of Andrada, who is on loan from Mexican club Monterrey.
“We witnessed scenes unbecoming of this sport and which should never have occurred,” the club said, according to a translated version of the statement. “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.
“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.
“The club strongly condemns what happened in that action, which has unacceptably tarnished a football match of special importance for our region, something that is inadmissible.”
Real Zaragoza also said that it will take a look at the events that transpired and take disciplinary action.
The showdown had plenty at stake with the two sides in a relegation battle.
Huesca defeated Real Zaragoza 1-0, with the only goal coming from Oscar Sielva.
Huesca and Real Zaragoza remain in position to potentially be relegated with five games left on the schedule.
[Notigroup Newsroom in collaboration with other media outlets, with information from the following sources]
