Getafe's Abqar receives two‑match ban for Sorloth pinch | A. Abqar

Getafe loses Abqar: two‑match ban for pinch

The Spanish Football Federation's Disciplinary Committee has confirmed a two‑match suspension for Abdelkabir Abqar, Getafe's Moroccan defender, after the March 18 incident in which he pinched Alexander Sorloth's genital area. The sanction arrives just before the fixtures against RCD Espanyol and Athletic Club, leaving the blue‑and‑white side without one of its regular centre‑backs.

What happened in the incident?

During the 30th‑round match, referee Ortiz Arias signalled a foul while the ball was dead. Video footage shows Abqar moving toward the Norwegian forward and, with the ball inactive, squeezing the striker's intimate area. The referee described the act as “physical interference” and sent the defender off. Getafe appealed, claiming the referee mistook the action for a simple pant adjustment, but the Committee rejected the claim.

Why did the RFEF uphold the sanction?

The Disciplinary Committee reviewed the audiovisual material and deemed the conduct “contrary to good sporting order”. It found no evidence of a manifest material error and labeled the club’s version “inconsistent”. In addition, it applied the accessory fine stipulated in article 52 of the Disciplinary Code, referencing article 129 for the final decision.

What impact will this have on Getafe?

Abqar’s absence weakens Getafe’s defence for two crucial matches. The affected schedule is shown below:

Without him, manager José Ramón Gómez will need to reshuffle the back line, possibly turning to Juan Márquez or a youth‑team prospect. The loss of experience could affect the team’s ability to keep a clean sheet, a vital factor in the battle for survival.

What’s next for Abqar and Getafe?

Abqar may resume training with the first team from April 7, but the ban serves as a reminder of on‑field discipline. The club announced it will review internal protocols to prevent similar incidents. Meanwhile, Getafe will aim to preserve defensive cohesion and keep adding points, aware that every match matters in the season’s final stretch.