12-match Bale rap

GARETH BALE is facing a 12-match ban for his “possibly obscene” goal celebration – aimed at Atletico fans – during last weekend’s Madrid derby.

If it is judged that Bale intentionally caused a hostile reaction among fans, he will be banned for between four and 12 games,

A La Liga statement said: “He moves his right arm up towards his head in a signal of provocation towards the fans, creating a possibly obscene gesture by moving his other arm and striking halfway up his right arm.”

Bale’s goal – his 100th for Real – had sealed a 3-1 win.