Football
Antonio Rudiger issues statement as Real Madrid star faces ban for attacking referee
Antonio Rudiger has spoken out following his red card during Real Madrid’s dramatic Copa del Rey final loss to Barcelona.
The German defender could be facing a significant suspension after he appeared to throw ice toward the referee and had to be restrained by teammates late in the game.
Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoechea also sent off Jude Bellingham and Lucas Vázquez for protesting decisions during the intense final moments.

In the official match report, De Burgos noted that Rudiger threw an object from the coaching area, although it did not make contact. He also highlighted the defender’s aggressive behavior.
At the time of the incident, Rudiger had already been substituted and was seen clutching a small bag of ice while being physically held back by Real Madrid staff and players.
His angry shouts at the referee continued, adding to the chaotic scenes that marred the end of the final.
Rudiger addressed the situation with an apology shared through his Instagram account. He acknowledged his mistake, writing that there was no excuse for his behavior and expressing deep regret for letting down his teammates, the referee, and the fans.
He emphasized how proud he was of Real Madrid’s second-half performance, despite his early exit and the unfortunate conclusion to the night.
The final itself was a thriller, capped off by a late strike from Barcelona’s Jules Kounde. His decisive goal in the 116th minute, a low drive into the bottom corner from 25 yards out, sealed a 3-2 victory for Barcelona.
The win secured Barcelona’s 32nd Copa del Rey title, extending their record and giving manager Hansi Flick his first major trophy since taking charge.
Barcelona had dominated the early stages, taking the lead in the 28th minute through a stunning curling shot by Pedri. Real Madrid struggled in the first half, but turned the momentum in the second half.
Kylian Mbappe, who had not started due to fitness concerns, came off the bench to level the score in the 70th minute with a free kick. Just seven minutes later, Aurelien Tchouameni rose highest at a corner to head Real into the lead.

However, Barcelona responded quickly with Ferran Torres finishing a rapid counterattack in the 84th minute, sending the match into extra time. Both sides had chances, but it was Kounde who ultimately delivered the knockout blow, sparking celebrations among the Barcelona faithful.
The defeat leaves Real Madrid with only the LaLiga title left to fight for, as they aim to avoid ending the season without silverware. Meanwhile, Barcelona remain in contention for a historic treble, with LaLiga and Champions League dreams still alive.
The fallout from the final, including potential suspensions for Rudiger, Bellingham, and Vázquez, could have a lasting impact on the rest of Real Madrid’s season.
Football
FIFA finally sanctions Israel and sounds message for peace: Here’s why
FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has taken action against the Israel Football Association (IFA) after finding breaches of its rules relating to offensive conduct, fair play, and incidents involving discrimination and racist behavior.
As part of the ruling, the IFA has been fined CHF 150,000 (around €165,000), with conditions attached. The federation is required to roll out preventive measures, including displaying a clear anti-discrimination message at its next three home matches in FIFA competitions. The message, which promotes unity and rejects discrimination, must appear alongside the federation’s emblem, with its design, size, and placement submitted to FIFA for approval at least 15 days before each fixture.
Beyond matchday requirements, the IFA must also take longer-term action. Within 60 days, it is expected to allocate one-third of the fine toward a detailed anti-discrimination initiative. This program is set to include structural improvements, defined protocols, monitoring systems, and educational campaigns across stadiums and official platforms throughout an entire season, all subject to FIFA’s approval. The remaining portion of the fine must be settled within 30 days. FIFA has also issued a formal warning regarding future conduct, with the option for the IFA to appeal the decision.
In relation to a separate complaint raised by the Palestinian Football Association concerning teams based in disputed territories, FIFA chose not to impose any measures. The governing body pointed to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the legal status of the West Bank under international law, but emphasized its willingness to encourage dialogue and mediation between both sides.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino reiterated the organization’s stance on the role of football during periods of political tension, stressing that while the sport cannot solve global conflicts, it can still play a part in bringing people together and fostering understanding through competitions like the World Cup.
Football
New angle emerges of massive brawl in Brazil: Brutal close-range fight footage (VIDEO)
The Minas Gerais state championship final between Cruzeiro Esporte Clube and Clube Atlético Mineiro ended in chaos on Sunday, with a massive on-field brawl. Cruzeiro secured a 1-0 victory, but the match will be remembered for the violent fallout.
Reports from Brazilian media indicate that the referee issued an additional 23 red cards following the melee.
The incident that sparked the conflict occurred in the 97th minute inside Atletico’s penalty area after a collision between Christian of Cruzeiro and home goalkeeper Everson. Everson reacted aggressively, first pushing Christian and then pinning him to the ground with both knees.
Close-range footage of the altercation later surfaced online, showing the intensity of the clash and adding fuel to an already controversial derby.
This extraordinary sequence will likely result in disciplinary action from the league and raises questions about player conduct in high-stakes matches.
Football
Michael Carrick blow as ‘prominent’ target on Man Utd’s managerial shortlist is ‘keen’ on Old Trafford job
Former Brighton & Hove Albion FC boss Roberto De Zerbi is reportedly “keen” on becoming the next manager of Manchester United FC.
The 46-year-old is currently without a club after leaving Olympique de Marseille by mutual agreement last month. Both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur FC have been linked with a summer move for the Italian as they search for a permanent head coach.
According to reports from The Telegraph, De Zerbi would favour the Old Trafford role if given the choice.
His potential appointment could be a setback for interim United boss Michael Carrick, who has largely impressed since taking charge in January.
Carrick suffered his first defeat on Wednesday as United lost to Newcastle United FC, with goals from Anthony Gordon and William Osula sealing the result.
Despite that setback, several United players are believed to support Carrick being given the role permanently. Senior figures such as Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw are reportedly impressed by his tactical ideas and deep understanding of the game.
United’s hierarchy have yet to decide whether to stick with the former England international or appoint a new manager. Other names linked with the role include Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto Martínez.
De Zerbi has also been mentioned as a potential candidate at Tottenham. Spurs currently sit 16th in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation zone.
The club dismissed former head coach Thomas Frank last month and appointed Igor Tudor as interim manager.
Tudor has yet to register a win, but after a recent defeat to Crystal Palace FC he insisted the team is still moving in the right direction.
“Unfortunately this is the moment we pay for everything. One red card changes everything,” Tudor said.
“Maybe it will sound strange, but I believe more after this game than before. I saw something. I need to choose the right players because the boat is going in the direction that I want it to go.
“When the injured players return, I’m sure we will have a good team and the victories will come. It’s not easy to accept where we are now, but it is how it is.”
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