Antony, the Real Betis forward, received a direct red card for a high kick that struck an opponent's face during his team's 1-1 draw against Girona in La Liga on the evening of 23/11. The incident occurred late in the second half at Cartuja Stadium in Seville, Spain, as Betis pressed for a decisive goal.

During a goalmouth scramble, Antony attempted an overhead kick inside the penalty area. Simultaneously, visiting defender Joel Roca jumped and headed the ball first. Consequently, the Brazilian player's high kick missed the ball and instead hit Roca's face.

Initially, referee Iosu Galech Apezteguia did not issue a card. However, after the video assistant referee (VAR) detected the dangerous play and instructed him to review the monitor, Antony was immediately sent off. Playing with ten men and limited time remaining, Betis secured the draw, maintaining their fifth place in the league standings.

This marks Antony's second direct red card in his career, both occurring while playing for Betis. Following the referee's decision, Antony raised his hands to apologize to the fans at Cartuja Stadium. In response, many home supporters rose to their feet and applauded as he exited the field and walked down the tunnel.

Earlier in the match, Girona opened the scoring in the first half through Ukrainian forward Vladyslav Vanat. Argentine center-back Valentin Gomez equalized for the hosts in the 75th minute. The result extended Betis's five-match unbeaten streak across all competitions.

However, the red card presents coach Manuel Pellegrini with a personnel challenge for the upcoming Seville derby against Sevilla next weekend. Antony will be suspended, missing the away trip to Sevilla's stadium. The former Manchester United player is a key contributor for Betis, having scored four goals and provided one assist in nine La Liga matches this season. Betis plans to appeal the red card to the refereeing committee.

Antony joined Betis on loan in january 2025, before signing a permanent contract in summer 2025. He was once considered a costly signing for Man Utd, moving from Ajax in summer 2022 for 103 million USD. In less than one year at Betis, he has scored more goals (15) than in 2.5 seasons at Old Trafford (12).

Hoang An