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Real Madrid expressed their frustration with the officiating in Saturday’s 3-3 La Liga draw against Rayo Vallecano.
Los Blancos claim a controversial refereeing decision denied them a potential win, which could have significant ramifications in the title race.
The game in Vallecas started badly for Madrid, as Rayo took a 2-0 lead with two early headers from Unai Lopez and Abdul Mumin.
Madrid fought back, however, with Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham leveling the scores at 2-2 before half-time.
In the second half, Rodrygo briefly led the visitors with a well-received goal, but Isi Palazon equalized for Rayo just eight minutes later.
The result leaves Real Madrid one point behind leaders Barcelona.
After the match, Madrid released a report on their official website and social media channels under the title “Controversial refereeing negates Madrid’s victory.”
👔 @MrAncelotti: “The penalty for Vinij Jr. seemed very clear to me.”#RayoRealMadrid pic.twitter.com/9SIqf6oQLr
— Real Madrid CF 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) December 14, 2024
The article criticized referee Juan Martinez Munuera’s decision not to award a penalty for a tackle on Vinicius Junior by Abdul Mumin in the 75th minute.
“The most controversial play of the game took place in the 75th minute,” the report said.
“Vini Jr. was clearly brought down inside the area by Mumino, but Martinez Munuera did not award a penalty, nor was there a warning from (Pablo) Gonzalez Fuertes, the VAR referee.”
Madrid have been vocal about their dissatisfaction with officiating this season, often highlighting refereeing errors on Real Madrid TV.
Speaking after the game, head coach Carlo Ancelotti also addressed the incident, stating: “Having seen the replay, the penalty looked very clear to me.
“There are draws and there are draws. The draws with Mallorca and Las Palmas (in August) were completely different from this draw… We are on the right track.
“The Mallorca and Las Palmas draws made me nervous, but this one didn’t.
“I thought it would be very difficult for us to find balance and attitude (this season), but we found it.
“We have the same attitude as last year, the same commitment, the same quality. Rodrygo is back today. (Eduardo) Camavinga is back.
“(David) Alaba will be back. I am starting 2025 with a lot of enthusiasm. We are fighting for everything.”
Real Madrid’s next challenge is on Wednesday, when they face Pachuca in the final of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.
