Vinicius could still feature in Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey clash despite Valencia red card | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s first game of the new year saw them make the trip to Mestalla on Friday night where they narrowly edged out Valencia 2-1 thanks to goals from Luka Modric and Jude Bellingham.

The match was no short in controversy as there were multiple questionable decisions made by the officials which have seemingly left Real Madrid outraged.

One such decision that has not gone down well with Los Blancos is the sending-off of Vinicius Jr. following a strong altercation with Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski.

The Brazilian international is now facing a suspension that could range anywhere between two to four matches, or even more, depending on how the Competitions Committee sees the incident that led to his red card.

Vinicius could be available for Monday’s Copa del Rey clash

However, Mundo Deportivo reports that despite his sending-off last night, Vinicius Jr. could still be available for Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey opener on Monday.

Carlo Ancelotti’s men are scheduled to face minnows Deportiva Minera in Cartagena on Monday night and even though their talisman was shown a red card vs Valencia, he could be present for the trip.

Vinicius Jr. was sent off against Valencia. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

This is because of the the timing of the Competitions Committee meeting, the body responsible for deciding the Brazilian’s punishment.

Current indications suggest that the meeting is likely to take place on Tuesday, leaving Vinicius eligible to play on Monday.

Speculation over a potential meeting of the Competitions Committee on Saturday or Sunday has circulated throughout the day.

However, sources within the Spanish Football Federation have indicated that the meeting is more likely scheduled for Tuesday. Real Madrid also have until that date to submit their appeal against the red card.

Given this situation, should Ancelotti decide to include him in the squad, Vinicius can play in the Copa del Rey on Monday, as no sanction will be in place at that point.

As mentioned earlier, the Brazilian faces a potential suspension of up to four matches, which could include the Spanish Super Cup.

However, Real Madrid are optimistic that the punishment will be limited to two matches, only affecting the La Liga fixtures against Las Palmas and Real Valladolid.