The Hague: AZ Alkmaar coach Gertjan Verbeek received a one-match ban Wednesday and will therefore miss the Dutch Cup match against Heracles Almelo Thursday.

The disciplinary committee of the Dutch football association had originally punished Verbeek with a three-match suspension, of which one conditional, but Verbeek appealed that decision. The appeals committee decided to reduce the suspension by dropping two matches.

Verbeek was sent off by referee Ruud Bossen in the league match against Heracles Almelo (3-1) March 3. The final punishment Wednesday was given for his repeated protests, both during and after the match.

AZ will play Heracles Thursday in the semi-finals of the Dutch Cup. Next Sunday the Dutch league leaders will host RKC Waalwijk, with Verbeek back on the bench.(IANS)