Real Madrid’s Copa Del Rey expulsion appeal dismissed by Spanish court

Spain’s top sports court has dismissed Real Madrid’s appeal against their suspension from the Copa Del Rey for fielding an ineligible player.

The administrative court of sport stated that it had “analysed the all parties’ arguments” and ruled to “dismiss Real Madrid’s appeal” for fielding an “improper line-up”, according to The Guardian.

Hence, after losing the appeal, Real Madrid still remain excluded from the Copa Del Rey. The 19-time champions were penalised for fielding Denis Cheryshev against Cardiz on Dec 2, 2015 in their round of 32 match.

Cheryshev received a one match suspension last season when he was shown the third yellow card in the semi-finals of the competition, featuring on-loan for Villareal.

The Russian was substituted right after half time when Madrid realised their mistake, with their Spanish coach Rafael Benitez stating that the club wanted to “show good faith”.

The same scenario happened last season when Osasuna were dumped out of the tournament for fielding an ineligible player. In 2001, when Rafael Benitez was the coach of Valencia, they were disqualified for playing too many non-EU players in a match.

"Nobody told the club or the player, not the federation nor Villarreal, so it was impossible for us to act differently. It's not our fault.” Madrid president Florentino Perez said regarding the Cheryshev situation, according to Sky Sports.

The Spanish giants were barred from featuring in the competition on Dec. 4, 2015. The decision adds to Madrid’s dismal year, which saw them being humiliated 4-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu.

However, the club has stated that it will not let the issue slide and will continue with the appeal against the disqualification, taking the case to the law courts, filing litigation against the Spanish Football Federation. If such was the scenario, then it needs to be dealt with soon as the first leg match between Cardiz and Celta Vigo is set for Jan. 7, 2016.

Real Madrid currently lies third in La Liga behind their local rivals Atletico Madrid with Barcelona leading the table. Real Madrid had last won the Copa Del Rey in 2014.