As per Mundo Deportivo, Real Betis are preparing a formal submission to the Spanish Football Federation’s Disciplinary Committee in an attempt to limit the potential punishments arising from two incidents during their match against Barcelona.
The La Liga club is challenging the referee’s account of Facundo Bernal’s dismissal and will also contest the incident involving sporting director Manu Fajardo.
Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea recorded both incidents in his official report, leaving Betis facing possible disciplinary consequences.
The club’s legal team intends to use video evidence and arguments based on the regulations to challenge the descriptions of the events.
Real Betis challenge referee’s account of Bernal red card
Bernal was sent off following a confrontation with Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal while the ball was out of play.
According to the referee’s report, the Uruguayan midfielder grabbed the opponent by the neck before headbutting him twice in the face.
Betis intend to dispute that account as they seek to reduce the punishment facing their player.
Their case will reportedly include footage showing Yamal shoving Bernal forcefully with both hands before the confrontation escalated.
The club’s argument will centre on the sequence of events and whether the video evidence supports their challenge to the official report.
However, the footage of the preceding shove does not automatically eliminate the possibility of disciplinary action for Bernal’s subsequent conduct.
The RFEF Disciplinary Committee is scheduled to examine the case on Wednesday.
While a four-match suspension is among the possible outcomes being considered, the final punishment will depend on the committee’s assessment of the incident and the evidence presented.
Manu Fajardo incident also included in Betis submission
The midfielder’s dismissal is not the only matter Real Betis intend to address, as their submission will also cover an incident involving sporting director Manu Fajardo during the first-half VAR review.
The referee’s report states that Fajardo kicked a ball positioned next to the fourth official, causing it to strike the official’s leg. The contact was described as occurring “without force.”
Betis plan to include this episode in their appeal as they attempt to challenge the potential disciplinary consequences for their sporting director.
Depending on the committee’s assessment, Fajardo could face a financial penalty or a suspension that prevents him from occupying his usual position in the dugout area.