Real Zaragoza goalkeeper Esteban Andrada is facing a potentially lengthy suspension after punching an opponent during a chaotic finish to his side’s derby against SD Huesca in Spain’s Segunda División.
The incident occurred deep into stoppage time of a tense relegation battle, which Huesca won 1-0 thanks to a goal from Óscar Sielva. With emotions running high, Andrada was shown a second yellow card after pushing over a Huesca player, resulting in his dismissal.
Moments later, the situation escalated dramatically. After being sent off, Andrada ran back onto the pitch and punched Huesca captain Jorge Pulido in the face. The act triggered a mass confrontation between players from both sides, further marred by additional red cards for Huesca goalkeeper Dani Jiménez and Zaragoza’s Dani Tasende.
Both clubs swiftly condemned the scenes.
Zaragoza released a statement on Monday describing the incident as “unbecoming of the sport” and pledged to take internal disciplinary action. “These events do not represent the values of the club,” it said, stressing its commitment to sportsmanship and respect.
Andrada, 35, later issued a public apology, admitting he “lost focus” in the heat of the moment.
“It’s not a good image for the club, for the fans, or for a professional like myself,” he said, also apologising directly to Pulido. “I accept whatever punishment comes.”
Huesca manager José Ángel Ziganda criticised the incident as a “complete loss of control,” acknowledging the high stakes of the match but calling the behaviour unjustifiable.
Zaragoza head coach David Navarro also apologised, saying: “There are lines we cannot cross.”
The defeat leaves both Zaragoza and Huesca still battling relegation with five games remaining, but the fallout from Andrada’s actions could prove just as damaging, with the goalkeeper now likely to miss a crucial stretch of the season.
The club further added, “We have starred in images that are inappropriate for this sport, and that should never have happened. These events do not represent the values of Real Zaragoza or Zaragoza, which throughout its history has been characterised by nobility, courage, and respect for the rival.
“We are an example and reference for many fans, especially boys and girls, who in each game encourage us and aspire to one day become one of their idols. That is why these unfortunate images should never have been produced.
“We strongly condemn what happened in that action that has unacceptably stained a football match of special importance for our region, something that is inadmissible.
“Regarding our player Esteban Andrada, the club will analyze the events that occurred and take the appropriate disciplinary measures,” the club added.
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