Jude Bellingham Challenges Referee After Real Madrid’s Contentious Loss to Atletico Madrid
Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham expressed his frustration directly to referee Ortiz Arias at the final whistle after their 2-1 loss to Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano. The match was marked by controversial decisions that left Real Madrid unsettled.
Key Incident: Challenge Between Bellingham and Romero
During the first half, Bellingham found himself involved in a heated moment when Atletico defender Cristian Romero caught him with his studs near the knee during a contested challenge. Initially, Ortiz Arias booked Bellingham, but after a VAR review prompted by official Trujillo Suarez, the referee was called over to check the monitor.
The VAR review revealed that Romero was actually the offender. As a result, Ortiz Arias rescinded Bellingham’s yellow card and booked Romero instead. Real Madrid felt this decision fell short of what the situation demanded, believing Romero should have been shown a red card given the severity of the tackle.
Additional Controversy: Kang-in Lee’s Challenge
Shortly after the Romero incident, Kang-in Lee fouled Federico Valverde with a studs-up tackle on the ankle. Although Ortiz Arias was nearby, no card was issued and VAR did not intervene. This decision added to Real Madrid’s dissatisfaction with the officiating.
Impact on the Match and Player Reactions
The contentious calls became central talking points as the game continued, especially after Huijsen was sent off following another VAR review later in the match. Real Madrid’s players were left frustrated, feeling the disciplinary rulings were inconsistent, which arguably affected the game's outcome.
Bellingham’s Reaction at Full Time
At the final whistle, Bellingham voiced his feelings plainly. He confronted Ortiz Arias, shouting, "Two red cards! Two!" This succinct outburst captured the mood within the Real Madrid squad, reflecting their view that key fouls went insufficiently punished, allowing Atletico to maintain a full squad in the crucial early stages.
Match Summary
- Final Score: Atletico Madrid 2, Real Madrid 1
- Key Incidents: Bellingham initially booked, overturned in favor of Romero receiving a yellow; Kang-in Lee’s studs-up tackle on Valverde unpunished;
- VAR Influence: Intervention led to booking change for Bellingham/Romero; no review for Lee’s foul;
- Player Sent Off: Huijsen (Atletico) after VAR review;
- Real Madrid’s Viewpoint: Felt disciplinary actions were inconsistent and too lenient in critical moments.
