UEFA has defended the decision to disallow Julian Alvarez's penalty during Atletico Madrid's Champions League match against Real Madrid, stating that the correct protocol was followed as per the current rule. Alvarez's penalty was overturned by the VAR after it was determined that he had made slight contact with the ball using his standing foot before kicking it with his right foot, resulting in a double touch which is not permitted under the rules.
While Atletico Madrid expressed frustration over the decision and sought clarification from UEFA, the governing body has acknowledged the need to potentially review the rule in cases where a double touch is unintentional. UEFA announced that discussions will be held with FIFA and IFAB to consider potential amendments to the existing regulation.
Atletico Madrid's coach Diego Simeone criticized the decision, expressing disbelief at the use of VAR to review a penalty in a shootout. Fans of the club also voiced their discontent on social media, accusing the officiating of favoring Real Madrid and labeling the incident as a historic robbery.
Calls were made for a potential retake of the penalty, with supporters condemning the cancellation of the spot-kick as "anti-football." The controversial incident has sparked debate within the football community, prompting UEFA to address the issue and evaluate whether adjustments are necessary to ensure fairness and clarity in future competitions.