Real Zaragoza goalkeeper Esteban Andrada faces a serious punishment after punching an opponent during a tense derby against Huesca in Spain’s second division – after he had already been sent off.
The Argentinian received a second yellow card for bringing down a Huesca player in stoppage time at the end of a fierce fight for survival.
He then ran towards Huesca captain Jorge Pulido and punched him in the face.
This caused a mass brawl, after which Huesca goalkeeper Dani Jimenez and Zaragoza player Dani Tasende were also sent off.
Andrada later apologized, saying he “lost concentration” and would accept whatever punishment was handed down.
Zaragoza also released a statement in which it “condemns in the strongest terms what happened” and said it would “take appropriate disciplinary measures”.
– We witnessed scenes unworthy of this sport and those that should never have happened – it is stated in the statement.
“These events do not represent the values of Real Zaragoza or its fans, who throughout history have been recognized for their sportsmanship, courage and respect for their opponents.
Zaragoza goalkeeper punched opposing team player pic.twitter.com/4LDEZHo9gt
— Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) April 27, 2026
We are role models and examples for many fans, especially children, who cheer us on at every game and dream of becoming like their idols one day.
That’s why these unlovely scenes should never have been seen.”
Andrada no va jugar más en @RealZaragoza el club analizará rescindir el contrato con justa causa por su conducta antideportiva. pic.twitter.com/h87qTwOyag
— Marcelo Bee Sellares (@mbeesellares) April 26, 2026
Andrada (35), who has four appearances for Argentina, is on loan at Zaragoza from Mexican club CF Monterrey.
– The truth is that I am very, very sorry for what happened – he said.
“It’s not a good image for the club, for the fans, and especially not for a professional like me. That’s why I’m really sorry. During my career, I received only one red card, and that was for playing with my hand outside the penalty area.
I also want to apologize to Jorge Pulido, because we are colleagues and, frankly, it was my fault. I lost my concentration at that point and I’m ready to take whatever consequences the league decides.”
Huesca coach Jose Luis said after the game: “It’s hard to explain. I think it’s a complete loss of control.
I can put myself in their shoes, stakes and all. But it is unjustified. It’s ugly. This was supposed to be a celebration of Aragonese football. I would like people to talk about the game, even though it was a tough one, with little play but a lot of fight.”
Oscar Sielva scored the only goal in the game, which Huesca won 1:0. Both teams remain in the relegation zone for five rounds before the end of the season.
Zaragoza coach David Navarro also apologized, adding: “There are limits we must not cross.”
(Vijesti.ba)
