Togo’s Djene Dakonam sets unwanted LaLiga record after 10th red card in Getafe defeat

Djene Dakonam endured a night to forget as he entered the record books for all the wrong reasons, seeing red for the 10th time in his LaLiga career during Getafe CF’s narrow 1-0 loss to Elche CF on Sunday.

The incident occurred in the first half of a tightly fought contest at the Estadio Martínez Valero, where the Togolese defender was dismissed in the 38th minute.

Referee Víctor García Verdura did not hesitate to produce a straight red card after adjudging Dakonam’s challenge on Germán Valera as serious foul play.

That decision left Getafe with a numerical disadvantage for over half the match, significantly altering the rhythm of the game. Despite their efforts to remain competitive, the visitors were unable to recover, eventually succumbing to a solitary goal that sealed their fate on the night.

The sending-off carries wider historical significance. With this latest dismissal, Dakonam now holds the record for the most red cards accumulated across Europe’s top five leagues.

The milestone, reached nine seasons after his arrival in Spain, underscores a career that has often balanced defensive excellence with a combative edge.

Since joining Getafe from Sint-Truidense V.V. in 2017, Dakonam has established himself as a cornerstone of the club’s defensive structure. His no-nonsense approach and willingness to engage physically have made him a dependable figure under multiple managers, including current head coach José Bordalás.

However, that same aggression has also contributed to a disciplinary record that now stands unmatched in Europe’s elite competitions.

A closer look at his red card history reveals a recurring pattern, with Sevilla FC emerging as a frequent adversary. Three of his dismissals have come against the Andalusian side, more than any other opponent, highlighting a fixture that has consistently tested his composure.

While the statistic casts a shadow, it does little to diminish his standing within the squad and beyond. Dakonam remains one of Getafe’s most trusted performers and continues to command respect within Togolese football circles for his leadership and consistency at the highest level.

The defeat has tangible consequences for Getafe’s season ambitions. Bordalás’ side slip to seventh place in the LaLiga standings, holding 48 points after 37 matches. With just one fixture remaining, their hopes of securing European football hang in the balance.

Attention now turns to their final game of the campaign against CA Osasuna. Victory in that encounter could prove decisive in confirming their place in continental competition next season, offering a chance to end the campaign on a positive note despite the setback in Elche.