Football
2 Feb 2025
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Carlo Ancelotti Slams Referee After Shock Real Madrid Defeat

Carlo Ancelotti could not believe the decision / Diego Souto/GettyImages

Real Madrid Stunned by Lowly Espanyol in La Liga

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti expressed his frustration after a controversial refereeing decision contributed to his side’s 1-0 defeat against Espanyol in La Liga. Despite dominating possession and firing numerous shots on goal, Madrid were undone by a late strike from Carlos Romero, who arguably should not have been on the pitch after a reckless challenge on Kylian Mbappe earlier in the game.

Carlos Romero’s Late Winner Shocks 15-Time Champions League Winners

Madrid, who were overwhelming favourites going into the match, found themselves on the receiving end of a stunning upset. Having scored 20 goals in their last five matches across all competitions, Madrid were expected to dismantle an Espanyol side battling relegation.

However, despite registering 21 shots on goal – with seven on target – and enjoying a staggering 76% possession, Los Blancos were unable to find the breakthrough. Their frustrations were compounded when Romero netted the decisive goal five minutes from time, handing title rivals Atletico Madrid and Barcelona a much-needed lifeline in the La Liga title race.

Carlo Ancelotti Fumes at Referee Over Inexplicable Decision

Carlo Ancelotti was livid post-match, particularly at referee Alejandro Muniz Ruiz for failing to send off Carlos Romero after a reckless foul on Mbappe. The challenge, which prevented the French star from counter-attacking, was deemed only worthy of a yellow card, a decision that baffled Madrid’s head coach.

Carlo Ancelotti’s Reaction to the Controversy

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Carlo Ancelotti did not hold back:

“The decision the referee and the VAR took is inexplicable. Everyone saw it. The most important thing is to protect the player. It’s a clear foul, a very ugly challenge. Fortunately, nothing happened in terms of an injury, but the VAR is there for that. It’s inexplicable to us that he didn’t show a red card.”

Carlo Ancelotti’s frustration wasn’t just limited to Romero’s tackle. He also lamented Madrid’s wastefulness in front of goal.

Kylian Mbappe was intentionally felled by Carlos Romero - but he only received a yellow card / Alex Caparros/GettyImages
Kylian Mbappe was intentionally felled by Carlos Romero – but he only received a yellow card / Alex Caparros/GettyImages

Missed Chances Cost Madrid Dearly

Despite their dominance, Madrid’s profligacy in front of goal proved costly. The team had a goal ruled out, hit the woodwork, and saw Espanyol’s defense remain resilient throughout the match.

Reflecting on the loss, Carlo Ancelotti said:

“The game was difficult. We did some things well. We had control, especially in the second half, and we had chances. We had a goal ruled out, we hit the woodwork. We had 20 shots on goal. Espanyol played well in transitions, defended well, they caught us out of shape, and they scored.”

Romero Admits to Cynical Foul on Mbappe

Interestingly, Romero himself admitted post-match that he had no choice but to bring down Mbappe. Speaking to DAZN, the match-winner said:

“I knew that it’s impossible to stop Mbappe on the run. I did what I could to stop him. The challenge was a bit ugly, I didn’t like that, and I said sorry to him.”

Madrid’s Focus Shifts to Champions League Showdown

With the La Liga title race tightening, Madrid must now shift their attention to the Champions League. Their recent group stage victories over RB Salzburg and Brest have set up a tantalizing knockout round play-off against 2023 winners Manchester City.

With Carlo Ancelotti keen to see a response from his players, Madrid fans will be hoping for a strong performance against Pep Guardiola’s men, as they continue their quest for a 16th Champions League title.

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