Football or WWE?!: Real Zaragoza keeper Esteban Andrada punches Huesca captain in a heated derby in La Liga's Segunda division

In the season's final Aragonese derby, mayhem broke out between the two teams. (Image credits – CommonsWikipedia, Licence Details)

Real Zaragoza goalkeeper Esteban Andrada punched Huesca captain in a heated moment in the derby game in Spain's La Liga second division. The Argentine was sent off by the referee before he went and took out his frustration. The brawl began late in the game in stoppage time when the goalkeeper pushed a Huesca player, which prompted the official to give him his marching orders.

He sprinted towards Jorge Pulido and punched him straight at his face, a scene straight out of WWE right on a football pitch. This led to an even bigger brawl on the pitch which resulted in Huesca keeper Dani Jimenez and Zaragoza’s Dani Tasende being sent off too. Andrada later apologised for losing his cool, quoting that he ‘lost focus’ and would accept any punishment that would be given to him by the league’s disciplinary committee. Real Zaragoza have also condemned this incident and will take disciplinary actions on their keeper soon.

"We witnessed scenes unbecoming of this sport and which should never have occurred," Real Zaragoza added in a statement. (sic)

"These events do not represent the values of Real Zaragoza or its fans, who throughout its history have been characterised by sportsmanship, courage, and respect for the opponent.” (sic)

It further added, "We are role models and examples for many fans, especially children, who cheer us on at every match and aspire to one day become one of their idols. That is why these regrettable images should never have been seen." (sic)

Andrada is currently on loan at Zaragoza from Mexican club Monterrey. The Argentine was disappointed at himself for losing control mid-game and apologised to all the fans of the club for disappointing them.

"The truth is I'm very, very sorry for what happened," the Argentine said. (sic)

He added, "Throughout my career, I've only had one red card, and that was for a handball outside the penalty area. I also want to apologise to Jorge Pulido because we are colleagues, and honestly, it was my fault; I lost focus at that moment, and well, I am here for whatever consequences the league may give me.” (sic)

Huesca boss Jose Luis also condemned the incident, stating that losing control like that in a game is unjustifiable. He said, "It's hard to explain. I think it's a complete loss of control.” (sic)

"I can put myself in their shoes, given what was at stake and all. But it's unjustifiable. It's ugly. This was supposed to be a celebration of Aragonese football. I'd like people to talk about the match, even though it was ugly, with little play but a lot of hard work,” he added.

Real Zaragoza boss David Navarro also apologised following the incident, saying, “There are lines we can't cross.” (sic)

Following this massive incident, it's highly likely that the goalkeeper will receive a three-game ban minimum with added suspension and monetary fines. It could also hamper his career further, as it's quite unlikely that Zaragoza would extend his loan deal after this fiasco unless he redeems himself at the club.

The home side clinched the Aragonese derby with a nearby 1-0 win as Oscar Sielva scored the winner. Both the rivals are currently in the relegation zone. Huesca are 19th with 36 points, while Zaragoza are 21st with 35 points, four points below safety with just five games remaining.