Madrid Derby Penalty Sparks Debate: Was Diaz’s Call Justified?
22 March 2026
Madrid Derby: Contested Penalty Steals Spotlight
Real Madrid continued the chase on their archrivals Barcelona by beating Atlético Madrid 3-2 in the Madrid derby, played in La Liga's round 29.
Vinícius Júnior scored twice for Real Madrid at 52 and 72, with Federico Valverde adding a third at 55. Atlético Madrid replied through Ademola Lookman at 33 and Nahuel Molina at 66.
The penalty won by Moroccan Ibrahim Diaz and converted by Vinícius for Real Madrid's first goal sparked widespread controversy and fierce Atlético protests.
Referee Decision Under Expert Scrutiny
The referee Monuera Montijo awarded the spot-kick for a tackle on Ibrahim Diaz, a decision that many insisted was incorrect after multiple camera angles.
Iturralde González, the refereeing expert for AS and Cadena SER, said it was not a penalty, noting the replays showed several angles that contradicted the call.
He explained: The first look may resemble a foul, but the last overhead angle makes it clear there is no penalty. Hanko arrived early to extend his leg, then Ibrahim stepped forward and collided with the opponent.
He added that VAR did not intervene, and if this penalty is counted, another penalty should be awarded for Carvajal's foul on Lookman in the eighth minute of the reckless play.
Read also — expert commentary on whether Valverde deserved the red card against Atlético Madrid.
Punchline 1: That call had more angles than a geometric theorem; Gauss would be proud.
Punchline 2: In football, the drama is only matched by my internet during buffering moments.
