Alvaro Arbeloa was sent off after Fulham refused to take part in a penalty shootout against Malaga, allowing the Spanish side to win the Costa del Sol Cup without a winner being decided from 12 yards.
The pre-season contest finished 2-2 after 90 minutes, but Fulham’s players and staff declined to participate in the shootout after a penalty was awarded against them in the final minute.
Arbeloa, who was appointed Fulham manager this summer after his spell with Real Madrid, strongly protested the decision. Referee Miguel Angel Ortiz Arias subsequently showed him a red card, according to Mundo Deportivo.
The incident brought an unusual end to Fulham’s preparations for the new campaign, with Malaga declared winners despite the match being level at the final whistle. Arbeloa also chose not to attend the post-match news conference.
Malaga had been dealt an early setback when Adrian Nino was forced off with an injury. His departure will be a concern for the club because they are due to visit the Metropolitano in a week to face Atletico de Madrid, while they are already expected to be without several players.
The opening stages produced few clear opportunities, although Oscar Bobb for Fulham and David Larrubia for Malaga were the most influential players on their respective sides.
Fulham eventually moved in front when Sessegnon arrived at the far post to head the ball into the net and give the English side a 1-0 lead.
Malaga responded with an excellent move involving Larrubia. The attack ended with Chupe applying a composed finish to bring the Spanish team level before half-time.
The home side continued to look the more energetic team after the interval, but it was Fulham who restored their advantage. Iwobi found the net to put Arbeloa’s side back in front.
Eight further substitutions then helped Malaga regain their intensity as the match entered its closing stages. In the 90th minute, a handball led to a penalty for the hosts, and Inigo Eguaras converted from the spot to make it 2-2.
The late decision to award the penalty was the main source of Arbeloa’s anger. Fulham subsequently declined to take part in the shootout, meaning Malaga were awarded the Costa del Sol Cup.
Arbeloa is now preparing for his first competitive match in charge of Fulham. His side are scheduled to begin their Premier League campaign against Chelsea on 24 August.