In a stunning Champions League clash, Manchester City and Real Madrid produced one of the season’s most talked-about moments.
The match left fans reeling from a decision that many believe changed the course of the game.
A former official voiced his amazement over VAR’s failure to call a penalty in a crucial moment. He argued that the incident inside the box deserved a spot-kick for City.
Real Madrid stormed to a 3-1 victory after Kylian Mbappe scored a hat-trick. A stoppage-time tap-in from Nico Gonzalez provided a late consolation goal for the visitors at the Bernabeu.
City’s frustration soared when officials failed to penalize a clear challenge in the box. During a corner clearance, Brahim Diaz collided with substitute James McAtee, forcing him to the ground.
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Referee Istvan Kovacs opted to award a free-kick instead of a penalty. Replays clearly showed that officials missed a chance to call a penalty when McAtee suffered a foul inside the area.
City struggled throughout the tie and bowed out of the Champions League play-off against Carlo Ancelotti’s side. They recorded a 4-0 win over Newcastle United but suffered defeats against Real Madrid and Arsenal in recent fixtures.
The decision ignited fierce debate among fans and football enthusiasts. With Erling Haaland sidelined after his injury in the Newcastle clash, his absence at the Bernabeu raised further questions about City’s attacking options.
Now, Manchester City sets its sights on a crucial Premier League clash with Liverpool on 23 February. The team aims to bounce back and prove its true potential in big matches.