Real Madrid advanced to the quarterfinals of the UEFA Champions League after defeating arch rivals Atletico Madrid in a tough encounter. The game had to be decided on penalties, and the visitors won 4-2.
However, the Merengues' progress was not without controversy during the penalties. Despite slipping on his approach to the ball, former Manchester City player Julian Alvarez beat Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois to score the team's fourth penalty.
Right before Fede Valverde could take another penalty, the referee stepped in to put out Alvarez's penalty for a double touch on the ball. Since then, there has been a lot of drama over whether there was a double touch and, if so, if it had any influence.
Thibaut Courtois spoke out on the contested penalty
After having the goal against him disallowed and winning the tie, Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois spoke to the media about the penalty.
He said, "We all know UEFA sees it clearly. I’m so tired of this victimhood with referees, of always crying about things like this."
It is reasonable to assume that Courtois is having none of the outlandish debate that has been going on since last night. He quickly calls out what he considers irrational complaining and relies on the rule book and UEFA's decision to refuse the penalty as soon as the referee noticed the disparity.
Whether the ball moved or Alvarez gained an advantage with the first accidental touch is irrelevant because the technicality of the situation stipulates that two touches on a kick from the spot are simply not permitted, and such conduct will result in a disqualification.
It is not the first time that Real Madrid's Champions League triumph has been questioned by frivolous disputes. Being the most successful football team in history comes at a cost. As things stand, Los Blancos have advanced to the quarterfinals and are one step closer to winning the trophy, while Atletico Madrid have been eliminated from the competition.