⚡ Madrid Derby Controversy: Was Le Normand’s Goal Legitimate?
The Madrid derby delivered fireworks on the pitch, with Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid overpowering Real Madrid in a thrilling 5-2 victory. But beyond the scoreline, one moment has dominated the post-match debate: Robin Le Normand’s first-half goal from a Julian Álvarez free kick.
⚖️ The Laws of the Game
According to IFAB regulations, attacking players must remain at least one meter away from the defensive wall until the ball is played. Yet replays show Le Normand stood far too close when Álvarez delivered the set piece. The infringement was clear, but referee Alberola Rojas allowed play to continue — and to the surprise of many, VAR did not intervene.
🎥 Where Was VAR?
The absence of a VAR review has become a lightning rod for criticism. Many argue the goal should have been ruled out, calling the decision a turning point that shifted momentum firmly in Atletico’s favor. Real Madrid fans, pundits, and even neutral analysts have questioned whether the lack of intervention undermined the fairness of the contest.
🌍 Wider Implications
The incident underscores ongoing frustrations with inconsistent VAR usage in major fixtures. High-stakes matches like the Madrid derby demand precision, and critics warn that trust in officiating erodes when such infringements go unchecked.
Though Le Normand’s header stands in the record books, its legitimacy will remain a talking point long after the final whistle.
🔥 Déjà Vu for Atletico?
Ironically, Atletico fans themselves have cried foul in the past over perceived VAR manipulation — notably in a Champions League clash when Julian Álvarez’s penalty was disallowed against Real Madrid. That controversy sparked wider conversations about penalty rules, including potential changes to how double touches are judged.
⚽ Whether simple oversight or a deeper issue, this latest derby drama proves one thing: VAR remains as controversial as ever.
