Former Manchester United winger Antony avoided a red card despite appearing to headbutt an opponent during Real Betis's Europa League clash with Utrecht on Thursday night. The Brazilian, now at Betis on a permanent deal, clashed with Utrecht left-back Souffian El Karouani after 21 minutes. El Karouani went down clutching his head, but the referee took no action, and VAR cleared Antony of any wrongdoing.
The incident occurred as the two players battled for possession. Antony appeared to look at El Karouani before aiming a headbutt in his direction. Despite the defender's reaction, the match official allowed play to continue, and VAR did not recommend a review. Antony went on to assist Betis's opening goal, scored by Cucho Hernandez.
Antony is already facing a suspension after being sent off in Betis's 1-1 draw with Girona last week. He was initially shown a yellow card for kicking a Girona player in the face during an overhead kick, but VAR upgraded it to a red. Betis's appeal against his three-match ban was rejected, and the club is considering an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Real Betis won the match 2-1, with Abde Ezzalzouli doubling their lead before Utrecht pulled one back through a stunning long-range strike from Miguel Rodriguez. Betis remain unbeaten in the Europa League and sit in the qualification spots.
