The Madrid derby between Real and Atlético ended in a 1-1 draw, but one refereeing decision is already causing debate. A penalty awarded to Atlético Madrid in the first half has provoked strong reactions, particularly from refereeing experts. As Real Madrid prepare to take on Manchester City in the Champions League, the controversy has left a bitter taste in the mouths of Madrid fans.
In the 32nd minute of the Madrid derby at the Bernabeu, with the two teams locked in an intense game, referee César Soto Grado was asked to use VAR to examine a contact in the Madrid area. Aurelien Tchouaméni, in defensive retreat, grazed Samuel Lino’s foot. After consulting the monitor, the referee pointed to the spot. Julian Alvarez wasted no time in converting the spot-kick to give Los Colchoneros the lead. However, the decision caused an immediate stir. Former Spanish referee César Barrenechea Montero was quick to express his doubts.
‘There was contact, but I’m not going to give a penalty. Although there was contact, the ball had already gone through. They don’t have the opportunity to play it. They’re not contesting it. It’s very harsh, and I wouldn’t give it,’ he said in statements relayed by Mundo Deportivo. An opinion shared by many observers, who feel that the foul did not merit such a penalty. Real Madrid, trailing against the run of play, had to find a solution to avoid a frustrating defeat.
Mbappé, Real Madrid’s saviour
True to form, the merengue club did not panic despite their opponents’ opening goal. Buoyed by a passionate Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid pushed hard for a comeback. And it was Kylian Mbappé who became the hero. It all started with a brilliant move from Rodrygo on the right. The Brazilian beat Galán with a devastating dribble before crossing back across goal. Jude Bellingham tried his luck, but his shot was blocked in extremis by Giménez. The ball then fell to Mbappé, who made no mistake with a pure shot into the top corner. A sumptuous equaliser that sent the stands into raptures and put Real back in the game.
Although Real Madrid were able to respond, the draw leaves a mixed feeling. On the one hand, Carlo Ancelotti’s team showed character by coming back from a goal down against a tough Atlético defence. But on the other, the disputed penalty denied the Merengues a precious victory in the title race. All eyes now turn to the Champions League. This Tuesday, Real Madrid travel to the Etihad Stadium to take on Manchester City in a decisive clash. It’s a real test of the club’s ability to bounce back from this frustrating derby. Will Real Madrid be able to digest the controversy and deliver a top-class performance in England? The answer in a few days’ time.
Leave a Reply