Atletico Madrid responds to Real Madrid's criticism of derby officiating

Atletico Madrid has responded to criticism from Real Madrid regarding the officiating during their recent derby match. Jose Mourinho, the Real Madrid manager, presented evidence at a press conference, claiming two incidents warranted red cards for Atletico players. Real Madrid lost the match 2-1, and Mourinho expressed frustration over the officials' decisions, particularly regarding a stamp by Atletico defender Cristian Romero on Jude Bellingham.

In a social media response, Atletico Madrid posted a video and an image with the message '#StopAcosoArbitalYA,' which translates to 'stop referee harassment now.' This came after Mourinho highlighted specific tackles during his post-match remarks, insisting that the refereeing errors significantly impacted the game's outcome. He pointed out that Atletico's Romero should have been sent off for his challenge on Bellingham.

Mourinho's criticism extended to the referee Miguel Angel Ortiz Arias, whom he described as inexperienced and unable to handle the match's pressure. He lamented the challenges his team faced after a key sending-off, suggesting that the game could have been very different had the correct decisions been made. Real Madrid's Dean Huijsen was dismissed later in the match, further complicating the situation for the visitors.

Real Madrid's official match report echoed Mourinho's sentiments, claiming the derby was marred by poor officiating. They noted that crucial decisions, such as not sending off Romero and Kang-In Lee, shaped the match in Atletico's favour. The report detailed specific incidents that led to controversy, highlighting the referee's failure to penalise what they deemed clear red card offences.

Both clubs are now embroiled in a dispute over the officiating, with Atletico Madrid defending their players and Real Madrid seeking accountability for the decisions made during the derby. The fallout from the match continues as both teams assess their positions in the league and the implications of the refereeing decisions on their respective campaigns.

via Sky Sports