Madrid – Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone mocked Real Madrid following a referee decision that favored Madrid in their 5-2 victory over Celta Vigo.
Madrid hosted Celta Vigo at the Santiago Bernabeu in the Copa del Rey round of 16 yesterday (17/1/2025). While the score was still goalless, Andriy Lunin fouled Williot Swedberg in the penalty box, but the referee did not award a penalty to Celta.
Moments later, Madrid scored the opener through Kylian Mbappe and doubled their lead after Vinicius Junior increased the score following the restart. Celta forced extra time after Jonathan Bamba and Marcos Alonso (penalty) scored for them. However, Los Blancos emerged victorious with two goals from Endrick and one from Federico Valverde during the 2×15 minute extra time period.
The referee’s decision regarding the penalty favoring Real Madrid sparked heated debate. It is undeniable that the match result might have been different if Celta Vigo had been awarded a penalty for Lunin’s foul.
Simeone seized the opportunity to mock Madrid, hinting that the club often receives “help” from referees.
“I didn’t watch the match,” said the Argentine coach, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.
“They told me about some incidents that occurred during the game… but it’s been like this for 100 years. I don’t know why it surprises you,” Diego Simeone said bluntly.
The controversial win sent Real Madrid to the Copa del Rey quarterfinals. With Atletico Madrid and Barcelona also advancing, there is a possibility of a Madrid Derby or El Clasico in this stage, with the draw set to take place on Monday (20/1).
