Barcelona's Luis Suarez banned for two matches after Copa del Rey scuffle

New Delhi: After seemingly enjoying a controversy free spell with Barcelona, once controversial striker Luis Suarez found himself receiving a three-match ban during a Copa del Rey last-16 tie against Catalan rivals Espanyol.

The Uruguayan is alleged to have threatened opposition players in the tunnel following Wednesday's first leg tie at Camp Nou on Thursday. However, Barcelona are expected to appeal the decision.

The ban applies to Copa del Rey matches only, including the return leg of the last-16 fixture on Wednesday.

Barcelona won the ill-tempered match 4-1 with Lionel Messi scoring a hat-trick. As many as two Espanyol players were sent off with another six getting booked during the game. Four Barcelona player, including the attacking trio and defender Gerard Pique was also booked.

Espanyol held the champions in a La Liga tie on January 2 at home, which was reported to have winessed alleged racist chanting targeting Neymar.