Following a challenging match, both Jude Bellingham and Kepa Arrizabalaga found themselves immersed in a thorough two-hour anti-dоping process. While the game may have concluded, the focus remained on ensuring fair play and integrity in the sport.
Real Madrid secured a hard-fought victory against Braga, a team that exerted tremendous pressure during the final minutes. However, the concern of many Real Madrid supporters was the condition of Jude Bellingham, who sustained an injury during the match. Fortunately, there is no imminent risk to his availability for the upcoming Clásico on Saturday.
Bellingham once again showcased his importance by scoring the second goal and dictating the tempo of the game. However, towards the end, he had to leave the field, and his expression hinted at discomfort. After the match, Ancelotti provided reassurance, stating, “He’s fine, with a slight strain in his abductor, but nothing serious. He’s ready for Barcelona.”
Nonetheless, Bellingham’s night was far from over. UEFA, as customary, selected several players from the Real Madrid squad for post-match anti-Ԁоping tests. The chosen participants in this instance were Bellingham and the Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, while Niakaté and José Fonte underwent testing for Braga.
In the anti-Ԁоping room, Bellingham jokingly referred to himself and Kepa as the “Ԁоping duo.” Their diligent compliance with the procedures lasted for over two hours. Bellingham maintained his trademark smile throughout the process, even offering his fellow player Camavinga some words of encouragement. He also sent messages to his teammates Arnold, Maddison, and Henderson.
Following the comprehensive anti-Ԁоping checks, both players discreetly exited the venue through the rear exit. They arrived at their team’s concentration hotel at 00:25 local time, where enthusiastic fans awaited them, eager to capture the moment in photographs.