Ethan Mbappé apologises after red in Lille-Betis

Lille’s Champions League opener ended in a 2-3 defeat against Betis, and one turning point was the red card shown to Ethan Mbappé shortly after the start of the second half. The 19-year-old was given a direct dismissal after striking the Brazilian Natan with an elbow in the face, following verbal provocations.

The dismissal that flipped it

As RMC Sport reports, VAR confirmed the call and Lille had to play the remainder of the match with ten men. Even though Davide Ancelotti’s side were already trailing 2-3 and had earlier gone ahead twice, they couldn’t find the comeback.

Mbappé’s night also had a bright moment before the incident: he started well and provided the assist for Japanese forward Ayase Ueda in the 12th minute.

His public mea culpa

After the game, he posted an apology message on social media, fully accepting blame. RMC Sport quotes him taking responsibility for the loss and telling team-mates, staff and supporters he was sorry for a “unacceptable” gesture.

The remaining question is the length of his ban. RMC Sport adds that he will miss Lille’s trip to Arsenal on October 13 for the second Champions League matchday.