Sebastian Haller sent off for headbutt in J1 match

Sanfrecce Hiroshima forward Sebastian Haller was issued a red card during a J1 League match against V-Varen Nagasaki on October 21. The incident occurred in the 66th minute following contact with an opposing defender during an overhead kick attempt.

After being confronted by Nagasaki defender Yuki Egawa regarding the play, Haller delivered a headbutt, leading to a VAR review and an immediate dismissal. Sanfrecce Hiroshima eventually lost the match 0-4.

Haller, a former Borussia Dortmund and Ajax player, issued an apology via social media. While expressing disagreement with the official decision, he stated, “I am sorry to the supporters who came to cheer for us through this difficult match,” and acknowledged his responsibility to the team.