Antoine Griezmann shown red card for kicking Roberto Firmino in the face in ‘Nigel de Jong-style’ attack

ANTOINE GRIEZMANN was sent off for Atletico Madrid after kicking Roberto Firmino in the FACE during their Champions League tie against Liverpool.

The Frenchman, 30, scored twice in the first half as he brought the Spanish champions back from 2-0 down to go in level at the break.

But his night turned sour in the second period when he clattered into Firmino's face studs-first.

The ex-Barcelona flop raised his foot well above his head and planted it int the neck of the Brazilian.

Griezmann was immediately shown the red card, with Diego Simeone's side reduced to ten men with over half an hour to play.

On the horror lunge, former Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson told BBC Radio 5 Live: "[The ball] was coming past Griezmann and he's put his foot out and caught Roberto Firmino.

"My first thought was that it was accidental. Yes, Firmino has been caught, but Griezmann was looking at the ball."

Griezmann will now be banned for Atletico's next European game – the return trip to Anfield on November 3.

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Meanwhile, ex-Holland star Nigel de Jong poked fun of the whole situation.

The Dutchman infamously booted Xabi Alonso in the ribs during the 2010 World Cup final.

And after seeing Griezmann's attempt, De Jong tweeted, 'Where did we see that challenge before', complete with eye emojis.

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