Real Madrid defender Marcelo has two-match ban halved

Real Madrid have succeeded in their appeal against Marcelo’s two-game ban and now he will only miss Sunday’s match away to Real Sociedad, reports AS.

Marcelo was initially hit with a two-game ban after being shown a straight red card against Levante last weekend.

The Brazil international, who also celebrated a new five-year deal earlier in the week, will still miss Madrid’s tricky match against La Real but is free to return against Real Betis next week.

Marcelo has established himself as the best left-back in the world in the last few seasons and news of Madrid’s successful appeal will please Zinedine Zidane.

Since the start of last season, Marcelo (11) has provided more assists than any other defender in Europe’s top five leagues.