Two fierce rivals, matches that Madrid thrived on—210 minutes filled with tension, culminating in a pivotal moment during the penalty shootout that overshadowed everything else…

Real Madrid triumphed over Atletico in the most agonizing manner, advancing to the Champions League quarterfinas on penalties, following a VAR reassessment that nullified a penalty goal by Julián Álvarez.

During the second penalty shootout, the Argentine managed to score despite slipping, equalizing the score at 2:2. Initially, it seemed valid, but then VAR informed referee Šimon Marcinjak of a technicality—Álvarez had touched the ball twice on his attempt.

The regulations are straightforward—this kind of action is prohibited, and the goal had to be chalked off. Nonetheless, many viewers, even after replaying the incident repeatedly, remain uncertain about whether the Atlético striker made double contact with the ball.

This incident has also generated differing opinions among former Spanish referees contacted by Madrid’s “Marca”—some assert the decision was correct, while others disagree.

No theft occurred.

Pavel Fernandes, referee analyst for Radio Marka, holds a firm stance.

“Julian Alvarez touched the ball twice—with both feet. The ruling is clear, and the goal should have been ruled out. VAR’s intervention was warranted,” Fernandes stated confidently.

Marko Antonio Rodrigues, commonly known as Ćikimarko, who officiated at three World Cups (2006, 2010, and 2014) and has 19 years of professional officiating experience, shares the same conviction.

“There was no theft, contrary to accusations. It can be challenging to determine at first glance whether Álvarez had two contacts with the ball, but those in the VAR room are well-versed in the technical aspects related to the rules, utilizing technology effectively. I believe the decision was justified,” Rodriguez emphasized.

Mateu Laos: I would like to see the video.

Antonio Mateu Laos, who was a La Liga referee until recently and officiated at the World Cup, expressed uncertainty regarding the correctness of the decision.

In a commentary on Movistar, he noted that he would have approached the situation differently.

“If I were officiating such a critical match, I wouldn’t feel comfortable simply relying on what the VAR room told me about the goal. I’d request to review the footage myself and make an informed decision based on that. Ultimately, it’s my responsibility, and I’d have to bear the consequences, which is why it is crucial that the decision comes from me. Technology can be beneficial, but nothing beats making the call with your own eyes… At this moment, there’s still some doubt about whether it was the correct decision,” Mateu Laos remarked.

Ituralde Gonzales: Even with all the footage, it’s unclear if he touched the ball twice

Eduardo Ituralde Gonzales, another prominent former referee who is now an analyst for “Kadena Ser,” shares a similar sentiment.

“I’m not one for conspiracy theories, but through all the footage I’ve seen or that has been shown to me, it’s not evident that Álvarez touched the ball twice,” Gonzalez stated.

Pedro Martin, the referee commentator at Kopa, elaborated on the reason why VAR advised Marcinjak to disallow the goal.

“VAR operates with caution—the referees likely zoomed in, focused closely on the ball, and spotted the double contact. Ordinarily, in such cases, the penalty taker misses, and there’s nothing to overturn. However, with video technology, scrutinizing closely can reveal different perspectives,” Martin explained.

News