Andrada hit with 13-match ban after punch sparks chaotic derby clash

Real Zaragoza goalkeeper Esteban Andrada has been handed a lengthy 13-match suspension after striking a Huesca player during a heated Segunda División derby, Sport360NG reports. 

The incident occurred in stoppage time of Sunday’s clash, shortly after the Argentine had already been dismissed for a second bookable offence. As tensions boiled over, Andrada rushed toward Huesca captain Jorge Pulido and punched him in the face, triggering a mass confrontation between players from both sides.

The altercation escalated quickly, leading to further red cards for Huesca goalkeeper Dani Jiménez and Zaragoza’s Dani Tasende.

Spain’s football governing body, Royal Spanish Football Federation, imposed a 12-match ban on Andrada for violent conduct, in addition to the automatic one-game suspension for his red card, bringing the total to 13 matches.

In its disciplinary report, the federation described the goalkeeper’s actions as “violent and aggressive,” noting that he ran and leapt toward Pulido before delivering a punch with “excessive force.” The governing body added that the severity of the incident warranted the maximum sanction available.

Further financial penalties are also expected for both the player and the club.

Andrada Issues Apology

Speaking after the match, the 35-year-old expressed deep regret over the incident.

“The truth is I am very, very sorry for what happened,” Andrada said. “It is not a good image for the club, the fans, or for a professional like myself.”

He also offered a direct apology to Pulido, admitting responsibility for his actions.

“We are colleagues, and honestly, it was my fault. I lost focus in that moment. I accept whatever consequences the league decides.”

Club Responds as Relegation Worries Grow

Real Zaragoza also released a statement condemning the incident and confirming that internal disciplinary measures would follow.

The defeat leaves both Zaragoza and Huesca in the relegation zone, adding further pressure to an already tense fixture overshadowed by the late controversy.