UEFA bans Rodrygo for two games and fines Real Madrid €40,000 | OneFootball

UEFA has issued a double sanction to Real Madrid after their Champions League match at Benfica, suspending Rodrygo for two games and fining the club €40,000.

The ruling follows events on 28 January at Estádio da Luz, with all ties set for 21:00. According to Superdeporte, Madrid's late arrival delayed kick-off, which UEFA views as especially serious on simultaneous nights.

Rodrygo was dismissed for two bookings and, as recorded in the referee's report, insulted Italian official Davide Massa, which worsened his case.

Madrid were also fined, with UEFA stressing the impact on organisation and broadcasts. The body named Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa as primarily responsible, issuing an official warning and cautioning that repeat breaches could bring personal fines or suspensions.

The measures form part of a wider case for unsporting conduct linked to cautions and behaviour that night. Benfica received the same fine and their coach, José Mourinho, was also warned, underlining that both clubs were held accountable.

Madrid now enter the decisive Champions League phase without Rodrygo, and the warning to Arbeloa intensifies pressure to adhere strictly to protocols.

Source: Superdeporte