Real Madrid has had a solid start to the season but is now unexpectedly displaying some symptoms of vulnerability. Madrid suffered its first season loss in all competitions on Sunday as Girona held them to a 1-1 draw at home in the Spanish league. Madrid lost their undefeated streak in the Champions League, 3-2, against RB Leipzig
On Matchday five.
Vinicius Junior’s goal in the second half offered Madrid the advantage after Federico Valverde’s low cross was slotted in. Cristian Stuani converted a penalty for Girona in the 80th minute after a VAR review determined that there had been a foul when a corner kick struck Marco Asensio in the arm. Then, Rodrygo’s late winner was disallowed by VAR.
Real Madrid was disappointed by referring decisions
The game ended in a 1-1 draw. As a result, the match between Barcelona and Real Madrid was closed to a single point. The game also witnessed some controversial referring decisions. While the very law of La Liga states that the decisions were fair, the club and the supporters had other impressions.
The 80th-minute penalty awarded to Girona was due to the ball hitting the arm of Marco Asensio. Asensio can be seen pulling his arm to protect his face as the ball races toward him. It was a close call, but according to league rules, it was a clear penalty. The arm was in an unnatural position aligned to the body.
The stoppage-time goal by Rodrygo was also ruled out. Rodrygo nicked the ball of the Girona keeper as the keeper looked to control the ball. The decision was fair and consistent. A couple of weeks earlier, Girona also faced the heat of the same decision as one of their goals was ruled off for a similar situation.
While the decision might have upset the Real Madrid board, players, and supporters, it is just. Not to mention the relieving sense that, for once, findings have been consistent.
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