Euro 2024 is heating up as the quarter-finals kick off, and with it comes the heightened risk of yellow and red cards that could impact a team’s journey. The first quarter-final between hosts Germany and tournament favorites Spain certainly delivered on the hype, with a red card and plenty of yellows brandished. Dani Carvajal, a Spanish player, saw red for a fierce challenge, but he won’t be the only one missing from the semi-finals due to UEFA’s discipline rules. So, what are the new rules, and who else is at risk of sitting out the crucial semi-final matches?
- UEFA amps up discipline with new yellow card rules
- Carvajal’s red card and its consequences for Spain
- A breakdown of players at risk of missing the semi-finals
Spain’s Dani Carvajal was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for his challenge on Musiala.
UEFA has introduced stricter discipline measures for the Euro 2024 tournament, aiming to curb unsportsmanlike behavior. One notable change is that players who surround the referee to dispute a decision will now be automatically shown a yellow card. Captains are the only exception, and they are permitted to approach the officials for clarification. In cases where the captain is the goalkeeper, an outfield player can be nominated to fulfill this role.
Carvajal will be absent for Spain’s semi-final, but he’s not the only player facing suspension.
Consequences of Yellow and Red Cards at Euro 2024
The accumulation of yellow cards can lead to a one-match suspension if a player receives two yellow cards before the end of the quarter-finals. This means that if a player accumulates two yellow cards across the group stage, round of 16, and quarter-finals, they will be banned for the semi-finals should their team advance. However, yellow cards are wiped after the quarter-finals, so players start the semi-finals with a clean slate. The only way to miss the final due to cards is to receive a red card in the semi-finals.
Players who accumulate two yellow cards before the quarter-finals will be forced to sit out the semi-finals.
As for red cards, any player receiving one at Euro 2024 will automatically serve a one-match ban. However, UEFA’s Control, Ethics, and Disciplinary Body holds the power to increase the length of suspension if they deem the offense warrants harsher punishment. If a player receives a red card in the final, the ban will carry over to their next competitive match.
A red card at any stage of Euro 2024 results in a one-game suspension. Two yellow cards before the quarter-finals have the same consequence.
Appealing Card-Related Suspensions
It’s important to note that yellow and red cards cannot be appealed at the European Championships. However, teams do have the option to appeal decisions made by UEFA’s Control, Ethics, and Disciplinary Body if they feel that a lengthier ban is unjustified.
Spanish defender Le Normand will also be missing from their semi-final lineup.
Players at Risk of Missing the Semi-Finals
England:
- Jude Bellingham
- Phil Foden
- Conor Gallagher
- Kobbie Mainoo
- Kieran Trippier
Netherlands:
- Denzel Dumfries
- Donyell Malen
- Jerdy Schouten
Switzerland:
- Remo Freuler
- Dan Ndoye
- Ricardo Rodriguez
- Vincent Sierro
- Granit Xhaka
Turkey:
- Kaan Ayhan
- Zeki Celik
- Arda Guler
- Mert Gunok
- Mert Mulder
- Salih Ozcan
Players Confirmed to Miss the Semi-Finals
Spain:
- Dani Carvajal
- Robin Le Normand