Laporta tags VAR events during Real Madrid-Almeria as shameful

The football world was left in shock after Real Madrid’s comeback win against Almeria at Santiago Bernabéu on January 21. Los Blancos had a shaky start and went behind two goals in the first half. However, they managed to turn the game around in the second half and triumphed over their opponents with a 3-2 victory. But, while the Los Blancos fans were elated with the comeback, controversy erupted regarding some of the decisions made by the referee and VAR. Joan Laporta, the Barcelona president, expressed his disappointment in a statement, saying, “What happened at the Bernabéu yesterday was a shame.”

One of the most controversial decisions was the penalty awarded to Real Madrid in the 57th minute. The penalty was scored by Bellingham, but many thought that the decision was harsh and undeserved.

Image of the ball hitting Almeria’s player hand in the penalty box

Another decision that sparked controversy was the ruling out of Almeria’s 3rd goal, which was scored by former Castilla player, Sergio Arribas. The referee ruled out because of a foul in the build-up of the goal.

The foul on Bellingham in the build-up for Almeria’s third goal

Finally, the referee awarded a goal to Vinicius, which many people believed he scored with his hand. This decision, like the others, divided opinions in the football community.

The controversies have reignited debates about VAR and the accountability of referees, and many Barcelona fans and president, Joan Laporta have called for reforms to be made in the system. Nevertheless, Real Madrid fans are celebrating their victory, while Almeria and their supporters are left to deal with the disappointment of a defeat that could have gone the other way if things had gone differently.