Real Madrid will face a clear attacking crisis in their two Champions League Round of 16 playoff matches against Benfica, following a disciplinary decision by UEFA against one of the club’s key players.
As announced by UEFA on Thursday, Rodrygo Goes is set to be suspended for two Champions League matches due to the red card he received in the final minutes of the last league match against Benfica.
Rodrygo was sent off for his outburst at the referee, who stated in his report that Rodrygo used inappropriate language, leading to the red card. According to disciplinary regulations, the minimum suspension is two matches, and fortunately for the Brazilian, this will be the only punishment.
Rodrygo joins a list of absentees for Los Blancos against the Portuguese giants, which also includes Jude Bellingham and Antonio Rüdiger due to injury.
Moroccan Brahim Diaz is probably the most likely choice from Alvaro Arbeloa to replace Rodrigo, or the coach will continue to rely on Arda Guler or Franco Mastantonu on the right flank.
