NEWS · 28 Sep 2026
Antigua & Barbuda players sent off after pulling Anguilla's dreadlocks
In a Concacaf Nations League match, two Antigua and Barbuda players were shown red cards for pulling the dreadlocks of Anguilla’s Aedan Scipio. The incident has sparked concerns about player conduct and could lead to further disciplinary action from the federation.
The incident unfolded during a Concacaf Nations League fixture between Antigua and Barbuda and Anguilla, a match that attracted attention for its competitive stakes and the intensity of the rivalry between the two Caribbean nations.
During the game, two Antigua and Barbuda players were seen grabbing and pulling the dreadlocks of Anguilla’s forward, Aedan Scipio. The action was deemed violent conduct by the referee, who immediately issued red cards to the offending players.
The referee’s decision was supported by match officials who noted that the conduct violated the competition’s rules on player safety and sportsmanship. Both players were ejected from the field and subsequently escorted off the pitch.
Following the match, the Concacaf disciplinary committee is expected to review the incident and may impose suspensions or fines on the players involved. The incident also highlights ongoing concerns about maintaining respectful conduct in international competitions.
Antigua and Barbuda will now have to adjust their squad for upcoming Nations League fixtures, while Anguilla’s management expressed relief that the player was not injured. Both teams will focus on preparing for their next matches as the tournament progresses.