Vinicius Junior to miss crucial Real Madrid matches as appeal rejected

Real Madrid had previously appealed unsuccessfully to the Competition Committee before taking their case to the Appeals Committee.

One of the primary arguments from Real Madrid was that there was prior provocation by Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski towards Vinicius, which led to the Brazilian's reaction in the 70th minute and subsequent dismissal on 3 January in the La Liga clash which Madrid won 2-1.

However, this argument did not sway the committee.

"In consequence, this Appeals Committee concludes that the sanction imposed by the Disciplinary Committee, consisting of a two-match suspension, fully complies with the law.

"The possible existence of prior provocation, although it could be considered as a mitigating circumstance, does not justify a further reduction of the sanction, especially since the most lenient criterion towards the offender has already been applied by imposing the minimum penalty stipulated.

"Therefore, the appealed decision must be confirmed in its entirety. In accordance with the foregoing, it is appropriate to dismiss the appeal lodged. In conclusion, the Appeals Committee agrees to dismiss the appeal filed by Real Madrid," the Appeals Committee's statement read.

With this decision, Real Madrid's only recourse now is to appeal to the Administrative Tribunal of Sport (TAD) within 15 working days.

If no further appeal is made, Vinicius will definitely miss Real Madrid's upcoming league matches against Las Palmas and Valladolid due to the suspension.

READ MORE: Man Utd eye Nene Dorgeles as replacement for Marcus Rashford