Cristiano Ronaldo handed three-match ban

Cristiano Ronaldo has been handed a three-match ban after seeing red in Real Madrid's 1-1 draw with Athletic Bilbao at the weekend.

The 29-year-old was given his marching orders towards the end of the league clash at San Mames after raising his hand to Bilbao defender Carlos Gurpegi in an off-the-ball incident.

It had been suggested that the Spanish Football Association would hand the forward a one-game suspension, but after reviewing the evidence, a three-match ban has been awarded.

As a result, Ronaldo will miss league games against Villarreal, Elche and Getafe, but he will be available for tonight's Copa del Rey semi-final first leg with Atletico Madrid.

Ronaldo has scored 32 times in 30 games this season.