Former Manchester United winger Antony appeared to headbutt Utrecht's Souffian El Karouani but escaped punishment during Real Betis' Europa League victory on Thursday night
12:00, 28 Nov 2025
Antony
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Antony avoided a red card despite appearing to headbutt an opponent
Manchester United flop Antony somehow avoided a red card, despite appearing to headbutt an opponent during Real Betis' Europa League match on Thursday night.
The La Liga team were facing Dutch side Utrecht when Antony seemed to have a heated exchange with their left-back Souffian El Karouani. The pair had several confrontations leading up to the incident, which took place after 21 minutes.
During this particular clash for possession, El Karouani appeared to grab the winger, who clearly took offence. Footage shows United's former £81m misfit seemingly taking a moment to look at the defender before aiming a headbutt in his direction.
El Karouani immediately fell to the ground clutching his head, but Antony was not penalised. The referee made no decision on the pitch and, even after VAR stepped in for a second look, Antony's actions were deemed acceptable.
Antony is already facing a suspension after being sent off in the final minute of their 1-1 draw against Girona last week - meaning he will miss the Andalusian derby against Betis' arch-rivals Sevilla this weekend.
SEVILLE, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 27: Antony of Real Betis walks into the pitch during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Real Betis Balompie and FC Utrecht at on November 27, 2025 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
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Antony avoided a second red card in a week(Image: Fran Santiago, Getty Images)
Utrecht would have been further frustrated by Antony's reprieve when he assisted Betis' opening goal of the night, scored by Cucho Hernandez.
Despite missing star player Isco, the Spanish side managed to maintain their unbeaten start in the Europa League, remaining in the qualification spots.
Betis extended their advantage with a goal from Abde Ezzalzouli in the 50th minute, and despite Utrecht clawing one back with a spectacular halfway line strike by Miguel Rodriguez, it was the Spanish side who claimed the victory.
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Antony will be relieved to have avoided a second dismissal in less than a week, having been sent off for kicking a Girona player in the face while attempting an overhead kick.
The winger, who sealed his permanent transfer to Betis this summer, was initially shown a yellow card which was subsequently upgraded following a VAR-prompted pitch review.
Despite Betis' efforts to contest Antony's three-match suspension, their appeal was dismissed, leading to speculation that the club may take their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.