Real Madrid Criticizes ‘Contentious Refereeing’ in Rayo Vallecano Stalemate
Real Madrid has criticized the ‘controversial officiating’ of Juan Martinez Munuera after their 3-3 tie with Rayo Vallecano on Saturday evening.
The reigning La Liga champions dropped points in the title race after failing to claim victory, as Isi Palazon’s second-half goal held them to a draw that denied them an essential win, which would have elevated them above Clasico rivals Barcelona into first place.
Depleted by injuries, Madrid,, had managed to come back from two goals down to take the lead after halftime. Goals from Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, and substitute Vinicius Junior turned the match around after a lackluster start.
Nevertheless, Madrid believed they were deserving of a penalty in the 75th minute after Abdul Mumin fouled Vinicius. A penalty would have provided them with an opportunity to lead in the closing moments, but they had to settle for a draw instead.
Madrid expressed their dissatisfaction with Martinez Munuera for his inaction post-match, publishing a report on their official website and social media with the title: “Controversial officiating denies Madrid victory.”
“The most contentious moment of the match occurred in the 75th minute,” stated the club’s report. “Vini Jr. was clearly fouled inside the box by Mumin, yet Martinez Munuera did not grant a penalty, and there was no intervention from [Pablo] Gonzalez Fuertes, the VAR official.”
After the match, Madrid’s manager Carlo Ancelotti agreed, saying: “Looking at the replay, the penalty seemed quite evident to me.”
To add to the frustration, Vinicius received a booking for his protests during the game, meaning he will be unavailable for Madrid’s next La Liga match.
Los Blancos are now anxiously awaiting the result of on Sunday evening, as a win for the Catalan side would push them four points ahead of Madrid, having played one additional game.
Ancelotti’s team will now shift their focus away from domestic action as they prepare for the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, where they will face Mexican team Pachuca in their first match on December 18.
