Dutch midfielder Clarence Seedorf has picked up the first red card of his professional career in bizarre circumstances today.
Seedorf was playing for Brazilian side Botafogo against Madureira and scored the winning goal before being substituted late on.
After initially being asked to leave the pitch on the opposite side to save time, Seedorf was booked for protesting against the request.
Seedorf decided to run away towards the touchline and was promptly awarded a second caution, despite being a considerable distance away from the official.
After the match Seedorf told touchline reporters that he "didn't understand anything" about the unusual dismissal. Botafogo held on for the final few minutes to record a 2-1 victory.
The 36-year-old is six months into a two-year contract with the Brazilian giants after choosing to end his playing career in South America.
Despite playing more than 800 times for a string of clubs including AC Milan, Ajax and Real Madrid, the Dutch veteran had never been red-carded before moving to Brazil.
Liam Power
