Red Card Debate in the Spanish Super Cup: Asensio's Tackle Sparks Controversy

Key moment and ruling

Former international referee Itoralde Gonzalez believes Raúl Asensio, Real Madrid's player, deserved a red card in the Spanish Super Cup final broadcast by the Eight app, the exclusive broadcaster of the Roshen Saudi League.

Barcelona seized the Spanish Super Cup by defeating Real Madrid 3-2 in the final.

In the second half, a controversial moment occurred when Pedri controlled the ball, then Asensio struck him with his left foot to stop a Barcelona counterattack.

Expert opinion

Referee Monira Montiero handed only a yellow to a Real Madrid defender.

Itoralde Gonzalez told Cadena Ser: "Asensio's challenge on Pedri, in my view, is closer to a red card than a yellow."

He added: "It's a very fast moment, a foul from behind with no chance to play the ball. In my view it's closer to red, but I understand the decision to only caution because of the speed of play."

Moreover, Itoralde also argued Montiero shouldn't have counted the last corner of the first half, saying: "Time added at half-time is subjective, but I don't think the corner that ended in Gonzalo's goal should have stood."

Bottom line: the debate over the referee's call adds another layer to a dramatic final, while the result stands as Barcelona's 3-2 victory.

Punchline 1: If refereeing were a sport, it would be a marathon—lots of big decisions, but the finish line is still disputed.

Punchline 2: If you want drama, watch the post-match analysis; even the coffee breaks have more consistency than some calls.