Man Utd handed new Antony verdict after Real Betis dream turns into 'nightmare'
Antony was enjoying start to life in La Liga but is now set to miss Real Betis' match against Real Madrid after receiving marching orders - unless the decision can be appealed
Manchester United loanee Antony's impressive start at Real Betis was dealt a massive blow after he was sent off in stoppage time against Getafe on Sunday.
It was the 25-year-old's fourth start in La Liga where he bagged his second assist for Isco's opener in the first half. After another solid display, Antony's night turned sour as he received a straight red card during stoppage time for a reckless challenge on Juan Iglesias.
The referee's decision has sidelined Antony for the crucial match against Real Madrid on Saturday - unless Betis try to appeal and are successful. "I can't tell you about the sending off as I did not see it," explained Real Betis boss Manuel Pellegrini after the match.
"But it is a pity we won't have him in the next game. He is bringing us a lot, we'll miss him in the next game, this will be a learning experience for him."
Antony's sending off has led to criticism from both the Spanish and Brazilian press. The Spanish media revealed referee Javier Alberola Rojas described Antony's action as 'using excessive force' after fouling the opponent 'from behind without the possibility of disputing the ball.'
Estadio Deportivo claimed that Antony quickly 'realised his mistake and apologised' but by then, the challenge had already sparked conflict between the teams. It's said that Betis' legal team are 'studying' the images to assess the possibility of appealing the decision.
Meanwhile, Brazilian outlet Trivela labelled Antony's night as 'magical' before it ended in a 'nightmare.' FootBoom added: "Antony's exciting start in Spain was abruptly interrupted by a reckless foul that resulted in a red card during Real Betis' 2-1 victory over Getafe."
The commentator of the game was also heard questioning the Brazilian's actions, saying: "What was he thinking?"
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Teammate Isco is hopeful the sending off can be reviewed and changed before the crucial game against Real Madrid on Saturday. "Let’s see if Antony’s red card can be reviewed because they say there was no contact," the former Real Madrid star said after the game.
Isco also highlighted Antony's importance to the squad. "It’s very easy to play with Antony, he’s incredibly talented and always makes good decisions," the Spaniard added. "Hopefully between now and the end of the season we’ll take the small step we need to get into Europe."
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