Expelled last Sunday against Alavés for a dangerous foul, Kylian Mbappé may not be punished as severely as initially feared.

His rough challenge on Antonio Blanco—an unfortunate tackle that caught the opponent’s shin—earned him a direct red card, which was widely accepted as justified by media and fans alike. The Frenchman apologized immediately after the match, a gesture that perhaps softened the perception of the incident.

While some feared a multi-match ban that would rule him out of the highly anticipated Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on April 26, Spanish media now suggest the outcome could be surprisingly lenient.

According to Cadena COPE, due to the fact that the ball was in play and the referee’s match report only mentioned an “excessive use of force,” Mbappé could face just a one-match suspension, based on article 130.1 of the league’s disciplinary code. If confirmed, it would be a huge relief for Real Madrid, as the French star would remain eligible for the final—a match that could define the Merengues’ domestic season.