Real Madrid were eliminated from the Copa del Rey.

After their appeal was rejected by the Spanish Football Federation's appeals committee, Real Madrid suffered another setback when they took the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Rafa Benitez and Real Madrid paid the price for the mistake of bringing Cheryshev onto the field. Photo: Reuters.

An announcement on the evening of December 11th stated that, due to a lack of relevant documents, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAD) refused to hear Real Madrid's case. Upon learning of the outcome, the Spanish royal club decided not to pursue the matter further and accepted their exclusion.

"The club respects the court's decision, which means the second leg on December 16th will not take place. The club will refund the ticket money to the fans who have purchased them," Real's statement read.

Real Madrid committed a foul in the first leg of the Copa del Rey round of 32 against Cadiz last week when they brought Denis Cheryshev onto the field. The player was already suspended after receiving three yellow cards last season (while playing for Villarreal on loan).

After Cadiz reported the incident, the Spanish Football Federation's Disciplinary Committee decided to disqualify Real Madrid from the competition. Real Madrid then appealed to the Appeals Committee but were unsuccessful.

Having been eliminated from the Copa del Rey, Real Madrid now only have two competitions left to play in this season. Currently, Benitez's team is third in La Liga and has qualified for the Champions League round of 16.

According to VNE