Atletico Madrid unhappy after Real Madrid star avoids red card in derby | OneFootball

In a significant development following the recent derby between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, there is growing discontent within the Atletico camp regarding a contentious incident involving Dani Ceballos.

According to AS, the Real Madrid midfielder’s late challenge on Pablo Barrios has sparked debate, with Atletico believing that the tackle warranted a red card.

The incident occurred in the 24th minute when Ceballos attempted to clear a loose ball but instead caught Barrios on the leg. The Atletico midfielder was left writhing in pain on the pitch.

Despite the severity of the challenge, the match referee, Soto Grado, did not issue a red card, nor did the VAR, led by De Burgos Bengoetxea, intervene to recommend a review.

Different ideas, different thoughts

While the officials saw no reason to penalise Ceballos further, former referees and football analysts have argued that the challenge clearly merited a sending-off.

Atletico Madrid’s official stance remains one of public support for referees. Manager Diego Simeone refrained from openly criticising the officiating but did mention that the incident could have been reviewed by VAR.

Atletico Madrid feel Dani Ceballos should be been sent off. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Privately, however, there is frustration within the Atletico camp. The club finds it perplexing that Real Madrid, who previously created a media uproar over a similar challenge involving Kylian Mbappe, has now seemingly benefited from an equally contentious decision.

The inconsistency in officiating decisions has left Atletico questioning the fairness of the situation.

Atletico will not take action

Adding to Atletico’s grievances is the belief that Real Madrid’s complaints throughout the week may have influenced the referee’s performance.

The pressure placed on Soto Grado by the Madrid-based club is seen as a contributing factor to his reluctance to send off Ceballos. Atletico contend that playing against ten men from the 24th minute could have significantly altered the outcome of the match.

In the aftermath of the game, Real Madrid have blamed Soto Grado for the 1-1 draw. However, Atletico remain adamant that Ceballos should have been shown a red card, a decision they believe would have changed the dynamics of the derby.