Court dismisses Real Madrid Copa ban appeal

Madrid - Spain's top sports court has dismissed Real Madrid's appeal against its exclusion from the Copa del Rey for fielding an ineligible player.

The Administrative Court of Sport says Monday it has "analysed the all the parties' arguments" and ruled to "dismiss Real Madrid's appeal" for fielding an "improper lineup."

Madrid was expelled from the competition for fielding Denis Cheryshev in a first-leg 3-1 win over Cadiz on Dec. 2 in the opening round. Cheryshev was carrying a one-match suspension for yellow cards from last season. Madrid did not realize until halftime in the match that the suspension existed.

The mistake further dents Madrid's image this season and deepens a crisis sparked by a demoralizing 4-0 home loss to bitter rival Barcelona.