The 21-year-old midfielder lost his temper following the final whistle, as Real Madrid suffered a setback in their pursuit of the La Liga title. ..Continue Reading
Hugo Duro’s dramatic 95th-minute goal sealed the win for Valencia, leaving Madrid trailing Barcelona by four points with only eight matches left in the season.
Valencia took an early lead through Mouctar Diakhaby in the 15th minute, and although Vinicius Junior leveled the score shortly after the break, Madrid couldn’t find another goal before conceding in stoppage time.
Bellingham’s frustration boiled over as he stormed off the pitch, directing his anger at the VAR monitor near the tunnel at the Santiago Bernabeu.
He struck the base of the screen with his left foot, hitting it hard enough to cause the sturdy stand to tremble.
Supporters on social media joked that the outburst was like kicking a teammate, especially considering how often Madrid have been on the favorable end of controversial VAR decisions this season.
One fan said: “I am a Madridista but it is shameful for him to kick the VAR. The referees help us in every match!” Another supporter said: “Why will you kick the hand that feeds you?
A third added: “He kicked his assistant, his teammates are refs.” And a fourth commented: “Bellingham is out here kicking his team-mate after a loss.” Meanwhile, a fifth posted: “No lie told right here BEST teammate.”
According to the regulations set by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), Jude Bellingham may now face disciplinary action. The midfielder could be fined or handed a suspension.
The RFEF rules state that “aggressive behavior towards equipment” is punishable, meaning Bellingham could be hit with a one to three-match ban if it’s determined that he intentionally damaged official league property.
Even if the monitor wasn’t harmed, the England star might still face repercussions for “bringing the sport into disrepute” or displaying “unsportsmanlike conduct.”
Should the RFEF opt against issuing a harsh penalty, Bellingham could instead be given a formal warning and reminded of the professional standards expected of him.
Real Madrid supporters will be hoping the ex-Birmingham City player avoids a ban, especially with La Liga entering its critical final stretch.
After the game, Bellingham took to his Instagram to post a message to fans, writing: “Nowhere near good enough from us. Must change for Tuesday!”
The Champions League winners travel to the Emirates on Tuesday for the first leg of their quarter-final.
