The match between Real Madrid and Real Betis, which ended in a 1-1 draw, has sparked significant controversy over refereeing decisions. Real Madrid’s official club channel issued a strong condemnation of referee Soto Grado and the VAR, directed by Gonzalez Fuertes, following a contentious handball incident in the penalty area.
The decisive moment occurred in the second half when Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz struck at goal, only for Betis defender Ricardo Rodriguez to block the shot with his hand. Despite the clear contact, the referee determined that Rodriguez’s hand was close to his body, opting not to award a penalty. VAR also chose not to intervene, heightening Real Madrid’s discontent.
In the broadcast, the decision received sharp criticism from commentators who labeled it a “clear penalty,” arguing that there was no alternate interpretation of the incident.
The situation escalated further when commentator Jose Antonio Luque raised concerns about systemic issues in officiating, suggesting that such contentious decisions often go unpunished and are accompanied by a ‘hand in the wallet’.