Antony's electric Real Betis start halted by reckless red card | OneFootball

Antony's dream start to life with Real Betis came to an abrupt end as he was shown a straight red card in Sunday's victory over Getafe.

Following his loan move from Manchester United last month, Antony made an immediate impact and boasts a return of three goals and two assists from just six games across all competitions. In La Liga, he has contributed to four goals in as many games, having only managed eight goal contributions in 62 Premier League games with United.

With life going swimmingly for Antony, he was brought crashing back down to earth in the dying embers of Sunday's game when a reckless lunge brought a straight red card.

The Brazilian's attempt to dribble past a defender saw him push the ball out too far and, when it became clear he had lost the foot race, made a desperate stretch to bring down Juan Iglesias without any intent to play the ball.

Referee Javier Alberola Rojas took a dim view of the cynical challenge and gave Antony his marching orders.

While Betis have publicly confirmed their plan to appeal his suspension, Antony appears set to be sidelined for the visit of Real Madrid on 1 March.

"It will be unfortunate to lose him for the next game, but it will also serve as a learning experience for him," Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini said after the game. "He has enormous talent, we hope he continues like this."