Real Madrid press concurs following Real Madrid-OM match: the called handball foul on Medina was unwarranted
In the 79th minute of the thrilling match between Real Madrid and Olympique de Marseille in the Champions League, a controversial penalty decision was made that has since become a subject of debate among experts.
The incident in question involved Vinicius attempting a hook on Facundo Medina, with the ball touching Medina's hand while he was on the ground during the scuffle. However, opinions vary on whether this contact warranted a penalty.
Referee consultant Iturralde González considers the penalty whistleable, but not a clear penalty. Mateu Lahoz, another former referee, and Alfonso Pérez Burrull, a renowned international referee, both agree that Medina should not have been sanctioned. They argue that Medina's arm was in a natural position and served to balance as he tried to protect himself from Vinicius's attempt.
The penalty obtained by Real Madrid in this match has added to the team's already impressive record in the Champions League. With 63 penalties, Real Madrid currently holds the record for the most penalties awarded in the competition, one more than Bayern Munich who are in second place with 62 penalties.
The Barcelona daily, Mundo Deportivo, has weighed in on the debate, using humor to contrast Real Madrid's complaints about referees in La Liga with the team's success in the Champions League. They note that the high number of penalties awarded to Real Madrid in the Champions League is a stark contrast to the team's perceived misfortunes in their domestic league.
Lahoz, the referee who made the decision in favour of Real Madrid, stated that players would injure themselves more if they couldn't lean on their arms when they fall. He believed that Medina did what he had to do to maintain his balance.
Despite the controversy, Real Madrid's success in the Champions League continues to shine, with the team demonstrating resilience and skill in their matches. As the competition progresses, it will be interesting to see how the team continues to perform and whether more penalty decisions will spark further debate.
