Barcelona captain Lionel Messi has been banned for two games after being sent off for the first time for his club during their Spanish Super Cup defeat.

Barcelona say they will appeal against the suspension, which was handed out by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).

The 33-year-old forward, in his 753rd appearance for Barca, appeared to swing at Athletic Bilbao's Asier Villalibre in the final seconds of extra time.

The incident was spotted by the VAR and Messi was shown a red card.

Messi would have faced a sanction ranging from four to 12 matches had the RFEF'S disciplinary committee described the incident as 'aggression'.

Instead it was reported as 'violence during play', which is punished with a two to three-game ban.

Read Full Story Here: https://winninggoals.com.ng/barcelona-to-appeal-against-messis-two-game-ban/

And I was hoping they would ban him for 12 games

barca should allow it stand and give chance for Lionel to get a little rest...barca would win the copa game and elba game without messi..
barca should start preparing for life after Leo incase he leaves after this season.

Elzakzaky:
And I was hoping they would ban him for 12 games

12 game because him kill person?? you for jus say make DM Gv am life ban and arrest am join..