Djilobodji Handed Three-Match Ban for Elbow on Ben Yedder
FC Nantes defender Papy Djilobodji has been handed a three-match suspension by the French Football League (LFP) Disciplinary Committee following a violent incident involving Toulouse striker Wissam Ben Yedder. The decision comes days after Djilobodji was sent off for elbowing the forward in a Ligue 1 fixture.
The incident occurred shortly after Ben Yedder had scored an equaliser for Toulouse and attempted to quickly restart the match by retrieving the ball. Djilobodji lashed out in frustration, striking the striker with his elbow in an off-the-ball incident that earned him a straight red card.
While many expected a harsher punishment, the LFP has opted for a relatively lenient three-match ban. With only two fixtures remaining in the current Ligue 1 season, the Senegalese international will miss Nantes’ remaining matches — a home clash against Saint-Etienne and an away trip to Bastia — as well as the opening game of the 2014–2015 season.
The disciplinary decision was confirmed by FC Nantes on their official social media accounts on Wednesday evening. The club posted:
“[Disciplinary Committee #LFP] Papy Djilobodji receives a three-match suspension. #EndOfSeason #FCNantes”
The incident has drawn criticism from several quarters, with many highlighting the need for stronger measures against acts of violent conduct on the pitch. Djilobodji, 25, has been a regular in Nantes’ defence throughout the season, but this suspension brings his campaign to a premature end.
The ban also means Nantes, who have already secured their top-flight status, will be without one of their key defenders as they look to finish the season on a strong note.
