Rico Lewis slapped with three-match Club World Cup ban for red card after Man City's appeal against suspension fails

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Rico Lewis will be forced to serve a three-match Club World Cup suspension after Manchester City's appeal failed.

WHAT HAPPENED?

In City's Club World Cup opener against Wydad AC, Lewis was shown a straight red card in the 88th minute for a challenge on Samuel Obeng as his boot caught his opponent in the face, as the full-back swept the ball away. The player was handed a three-match suspension, which the Cityzens subsequently appealed, but it was unsuccessful as Lewis' ban was upheld, according to The Athletic.

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THE BIGGER PICTURE

Lewis's absence will hurt the former English champions as they face Juventus in their final group game on June 26. It's a must-win game for Pep Guardiola's men if they want to top their group and avoid facing Real Madrid in their round of 16 clash. Lewis has already served one match of his ban but will also miss the game against Juventus and their last-16 tie.

DID YOU KNOW?

Guardiola was left fuming with Lewis' sending off after the match as he felt that the player had his leg on the ground when he went for the tackle and as a result, a straight red card was completely unjustified.

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WHAT NEXT FOR MANCHESTER CITY?

In Lewis' absence, the City boss tried a back three in their second game against Al Ain, with Matheus Nunes slotting in as a right wing-back. The Portuguese midfielder will once again play in a makeshift role against the Bianconeri on Thursday.