Iker Almena suspended for two matches after red card against NK Rudeš

GNK Dinamo Zagreb midfielder Iker Almena has received a two-match suspension from the Croatian Football Federation (HNS) after being sent off during his team's defeat to NK Rudeš. The disciplinary body determined that the Spanish player committed a reckless elbow strike, warranting the mandatory ban associated with a direct red card in domestic competition.

The incident occurred in the 72nd minute when referee Ante Čulina immediately issued a direct red card. Almena had entered the match only minutes earlier and lost his temper following a shove from opponent Felipe Curcio. After surrendering possession, he turned and struck the opposing player with his elbow, leading to the dismissal.

The on-field decision underwent Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review to ensure compliance with competition protocols. According to a subsequent refereeing analysis published by the HNS and conducted by Bertrand Layec, the video officials confirmed that Čulina’s original judgment to show a direct red card was correct. This verification process upholds the standard enforcement of violent conduct regulations within the league.

As a result of the suspension, Almena is unavailable for selection in upcoming fixtures. He will miss Sunday’s match against Varaždin as well as the November 21 home game against Istra 1961 at Maksimir stadium. The two-match ban prevents him from contributing during a period where the club faces immediate competitive obligations.

Almena will regain eligibility for GNK Dinamo Zagreb in round 15 of the HNL when the team faces Gorica. His absence coincides with significant turmoil at the club, as Dinamo lost the match against Rudeš and subsequently dismissed head coach Mario Kovačević following the defeat.