Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) ratified the two-match suspension for Barcelona's Brazilian defender Dani Álves, following an appeal filed by the Catalan club asking to reduce it.

Havana, February 12 (RHC)-- The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) ratified the two-match suspension for Barcelona's Brazilian defender Dani Álves, following an appeal filed by the Catalan club asking to reduce it.

The Spanish soccer governing body upheld the measure against the player, who committed a strong foul from behind against Belgian striker Yannick Carrasco, in the match between Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid for the 23rd La Liga matchday.

Barcelona filed an appeal requesting a reduction to one match, arguing that the player had options to dispute the ball, but the RFEF maintained its position and decided to keep the sanction at two matches.

Thus, the former Brazilian international will miss the matches against Espanyol and Valencia, for the 24th and 25th La Liga matchdays.