Simeone Furious Over VAR Decision as Atletico Madrid Crashes Out of Champions League

Posted : 13 March 2025

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone expressed his frustration over the referee's decision to disallow Julian Alvarez's penalty in the decisive shootout, as his team was eliminated from the Champions League by city rivals Real Madrid. The dramatic last-16 tie ended 2-2 on aggregate after Atletico secured a 1-0 victory in the second leg.

However, Real Madrid won the shootout 4-2, sealing their place in the quarterfinals. The controversy arose when Alvarez slipped while taking his penalty, with VAR ruling that his left foot had made slight contact with the ball before his right foot struck it, leading to the penalty being overturned.

Simeone was visibly displeased with referee Szymon Marciniak's decision and questioned the clarity of the footage used to make the call. Speaking in his post-match press conference, the Argentine coach criticized the use of VAR in the penalty shootout, arguing that he had never witnessed such a review during spot kicks.

He challenged those present to confirm whether they had seen definitive proof of Alvarez touching the ball twice, but, in his view, there was no clear evidence. His frustration was evident as he dismissed further discussion on the matter, focusing instead on Atletico’s overall performance.

Despite the disappointment, Simeone expressed pride in his players' efforts and turned his attention to their upcoming LaLiga fixture against Barcelona. With only one point separating Spain’s top three clubs, the title race remains fiercely contested.

Barcelona leads the standings with 57 points, level with second-placed Real Madrid but ahead on goal difference, while Atletico trails closely with 56 points. Acknowledging the toll of the intense Champions League battle, Simeone admitted his squad would be fatigued but vowed they would fight with everything they had against Barcelona.

Reflecting on the match, Simeone emphasized the passion and determination his team displayed, acknowledging the frustration of Atletico's supporters while also appreciating their unwavering support. He conceded that their exit was painful but took solace in the way his squad competed until the end.

Despite the heartbreak, he believed the team had earned the applause of their fans and remained hopeful about their prospects in the league. Although Atletico fell short in Europe, Simeone remained resolute, stating he would go home in defeat but with a sense of peace.

Simeone Furious Over VAR Decision as Atletico Madrid Crashes Out of Champions League

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