Real Madrid’s Nacho Cleared to Play in El Clásico After Reduced Suspension

Real Madrid’s defender, Nacho Fernandez, has had his suspension reduced to two matches, making him eligible to play against arch-rivals Barcelona in the upcoming Clasico on October 28 in La Liga. The Spanish football federation’s appeal committee decided to decrease Nacho’s ban from three games after he was shown a red card for a harsh foul on Girona’s winger, Portu.

This incident occurred during a match where La Liga leaders, Real Madrid, were comfortably leading Girona 3-0. Nacho received his marching orders in stoppage time due to a high tackle that forced Portu to be stretchered off the field. Following the match, Nacho offered his apologies to Portu, with Girona’s coach, Michel, describing the foul as “incomprehensible.”

Real Madrid currently sits three points ahead of Barcelona, who are in third place in the league standings. There is one more round of league matches scheduled before the eagerly anticipated Clasico.

Nacho had already missed Real Madrid’s 4-0 victory over Osasuna on October 7 due to his suspension. He will serve the remaining match of his ban in the upcoming fixture against Sevilla.

Real Madrid has faced defensive challenges this season, with center-back Eder Militao sidelined with a long-term injury. This leaves Nacho, Antonio Rudiger, and David Alaba as the primary options in that position. In the absence of Nacho and the injured Alaba, holding midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni deputized effectively during the emphatic win over Osasuna.