VAR Audio of Penalty Incident in Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid Comes to Light

The Madrid Derby has always been a spectacle of intensity, passion, and controversy. The latest clash between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid was no different, as the heated rivalry delivered yet another dramatic encounter that ended in a draw. However, one particular moment stole the spotlight—the contentious penalty decision against Aurelien Tchouameni for a foul on Samu Lino during the first half.

This decision proved to be a game-changing moment, allowing Julian Alvarez to put Atletico Madrid ahead. After the match, Movistar+ released the audio recording of the conversation between the on-field referee, Cesar Soto Grado, and VAR official Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea. The dialogue sheds light on the deliberations that led to the penalty call, providing further insight into the match’s most controversial incident.

What Was Discussed?

The release of the VAR audio has given fans and analysts a rare behind-the-scenes look at how the decision was made. It all started with the VAR official, De Burgos Bengoetxea, recommending an On-Field Review (OFR) for the referee to reassess a possible penalty situation.

“Cesar, I recommend an OFR to evaluate a possible penalty,” said the VAR official, prompting Soto Grado to approach the pitch-side monitor.

As Soto Grado reviewed the footage, De Burgos Bengoetxea provided multiple video angles of the incident. Initially, the visuals were not entirely clear, but the VAR team then supplied higher-quality images to assist the referee’s assessment.

Examining the Footage

The referee carefully analyzed the replays, noting that Tchouameni appeared to have stepped on Lino’s foot with his cleats. Seeking further confirmation, Soto Grado requested additional angles to gain a clearer perspective.

“He steps on him there with cleats. Give me another. Let’s see if you have one that can be seen from behind,” the referee stated.

However, De Burgos Bengoetxea informed him that the available footage was already the best they had. “They are the best quality, the others are very swept away,” the VAR official explained, suggesting that no better angle was available.

The Decision

After a thorough review, Soto Grado reached his final verdict—awarding Atletico Madrid a penalty. However, he chose not to issue any further disciplinary action to Tchouameni, opting against a yellow or red card.

“I’m going to give a penalty. I’m not going to give him a warning. Only penalty,” Soto Grado announced.

Real Madrid players, led by Jude Bellingham, Lucas Vazquez, and Dani Ceballos, immediately protested the decision, engaging in heated discussions with the referee. Despite their appeals, the decision remained unchanged, leaving Los Blancos frustrated with the officiating.

Real Madrid’s Frustrations

The penalty decision sparked immediate outrage among Real Madrid’s players and fans. Many felt that the call was harsh and that the incident did not warrant a penalty. The debate only intensified as social media was flooded with reactions from both sets of supporters, each offering their interpretations of the controversial moment.

While Atletico Madrid capitalized on the opportunity, converting the penalty to take the lead, Real Madrid fought back to secure a draw. However, the penalty incident remained a major talking point long after the final whistle.

A Recurring Theme in the Madrid Derby

This is not the first time that officiating decisions in a Madrid Derby have come under scrutiny. Throughout the years, both Atletico and Real Madrid have had their fair share of complaints regarding refereeing calls in this fierce rivalry.

Diego Simeone’s side has often argued that referees favor Real Madrid, while Los Blancos have pointed out moments where they felt decisions went against them. The latest incident only adds fuel to an already heated narrative surrounding officiating in these high-stakes encounters.

The Role of VAR in Modern Football

The use of VAR in football was introduced to eliminate clear and obvious mistakes, yet debates over its effectiveness continue to rage on. In theory, VAR should provide clarity, but in practice, it often leads to more controversy, as seen in this case.

Many argue that the subjective nature of certain decisions still leaves room for interpretation, making it difficult to achieve absolute consistency. The Madrid Derby penalty call is yet another example of how VAR, despite its technological advantages, does not always silence the debate surrounding refereeing decisions.

Ancelotti’s Perspective

After the match, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti addressed the controversy, stating that while he respected the referee’s decision, he believed the penalty was soft. “It’s difficult to understand these calls sometimes. We have to accept it and move forward,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone had a different take, supporting the decision and praising the officials for their handling of the situation. “If it’s a penalty, it’s a penalty. The referee made his call, and we move on,” he said.

What This Means for the Title Race

The draw means both teams drop crucial points in the La Liga title race. Real Madrid, chasing yet another league title, will rue the controversial decision that denied them a possible victory. Atletico Madrid, on the other hand, will feel they earned a well-fought point against their city rivals.

With the season progressing, every point becomes more valuable, and moments like these could have lasting implications on the final standings. The Madrid Derby might be over, but the debate surrounding this penalty decision is far from settled.

Conclusion

The release of the VAR audio has provided transparency into the decision-making process, yet it has done little to ease tensions between the two clubs and their supporters. As long as football remains a game of passion and subjectivity, moments like these will continue to spark debates among fans and analysts alike.

While Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid will shift their focus to upcoming fixtures, the latest chapter in their fierce rivalry will be remembered as yet another controversial Madrid Derby moment. The question remains—was justice served, or did Real Madrid fall victim to another debatable refereeing call?