'The sanction is not correct' - Ancelotti defends Vinicius after two-match LaLiga ban

Carlo Ancelotti insists "it is difficult to be Vinicius Junior" after Real Madrid saw their appeal against the forward's two-match suspension rejected.

The Brazil international was banned for two league games after receiving a red card for slapping goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski during Friday's victory over Valencia.

Ancelotti had hoped Madrid would win their appeal, believing Vinicius' actions were only worthy of a yellow card, though he has been cleared to play in Thursday's Supercopa de Espana semi-final against Mallorca.

And the Italian jumped to the defence of his players, who has been frequently subjected to racial abuse in recent seasons.

"We are delighted with Vinicius in every aspect," Ancelotti told reporters during his pre-match conference.

"Both he and I hear what happens on the pitch. I keep saying that it is difficult to be Vinicius. The sanction is not correct. When you talk about Vinicius' provocation, you deflect the shot from the insults he receives."

Madrid will face either Barcelona or Athletic Bilbao in Sunday's final should they overcome Mallorca.

All matches level after 90 minutes in this competition go straight to penalties, much to Ancelotti's approval.

"We know the opponent very well and they know us," he added. "It's going to be very competitive. They have good characteristics and can fight for the game.

"You think you will play a good game and win it. If you don't win, there's the penalty shootout. It changes a lot. It avoids extra-time, which can be more complicated to manage."

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— Real Madrid C.F.(@realmadriden) January 8, 2025