Summary:
In a thrilling Champions League last-16 shootout between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid, Julian Alvarez’s double-kick penalty sparked controversy. The Argentine forward slipped while taking the penalty, but still managed to score. However, VAR intervened, ruling that Alvarez had touched the ball twice, resulting in the goal being disallowed. Real Madrid went on to win the shootout 4-2, with much debate surrounding the decision.
Unusual VAR Call on Alvarez’s Penalty
The tense match between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid took a dramatic turn when Julian Alvarez stepped up to take a penalty. After Conor Gallagher’s early strike leveled the aggregate score, Alvarez had the chance to make it 2-2. However, as he slipped while taking the shot, the ball ended up in the net. Atletico fans erupted in celebration, only to have their hopes dashed as VAR determined that Alvarez had touched the ball twice in one movement. This rare occurrence led to the disallowing of the goal, leaving fans and players alike stunned.
What Do the Rules Say?
The IFAB laws of the game stipulate that a player taking a penalty must not touch the ball again until it has touched another player. This same rule applies to rebounds off the post during regular play. In Alvarez’s case, the double touch led to the correct decision of disallowing the goal. While Atletico coach Diego Simeone expressed doubt over the ruling, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois acknowledged that the rules were followed.
Expert Insights and Previous Occurrences
The unusual incident involving Alvarez’s penalty has occurred before in the Premier League, with players like Riyad Mahrez and Aleksandar Mitrovic experiencing similar disallowed goals due to double touches. The strict adherence to the rules, as pointed out by experts like Shay Given and Pep Guardiola, underscores the importance of fair play and consistency in officiating. While controversy may arise from such decisions, the integrity of the game remains paramount.
‘Mbappe Wasn’t Right’: Behind the Scenes
Spanish football expert Guillem Balague provided insights into the tense atmosphere during the match, highlighting Kylian Mbappe’s struggles with injury. The exchange of words in the tunnel post-match reflected the intensity of the game, with players grappling with physical and emotional challenges. The intricate details shared by Balague offer a glimpse into the human side of the game, where players grapple with pressure and unforeseen circumstances.
The Real Madrid Legacy Continues
Real Madrid’s victory over Atletico Madrid not only secured their spot in the UCL quarter-finals but also cemented their dominance over their city rivals in penalty shootouts. With a rich history of triumphs in European competitions, Real Madrid’s legacy remains unscathed. The rivalry between the two clubs adds another chapter to their storied history, showcasing the drama and unpredictability of football at its finest.
In a thrilling showdown between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid, Julian Alvarez’s double-kick penalty stirred controversy and sparked debates. The intricacies of the game, from VAR decisions to expert insights, shed light on the complexities of football officiating and the emotional rollercoaster experienced by players and fans alike. As the dust settles on another intense derby clash, the echoes of the double-touch penalty linger, reminding us of the fine margins that define the beautiful game.
