Real Madrid Blast Referee Ortiz Arias After Controversial Madrid Derby Defeat

Real Madrid have publicly criticised referee Miguel Ángel Ortiz Arias following their 2-1 defeat to Atlético Madrid in Sunday’s Madrid derby at the Metropolitano.

The Spanish giants released a strongly worded statement after the match, accusing Ortiz Arias of delivering a “dreadful refereeing performance” and arguing that several decisions had a major influence on the outcome.

Real Madrid specifically highlighted two first-half incidents involving Cristian Romero and Lee Kang-in.

Romero was booked after catching Jude Bellingham on the knee, with Ortiz Arias going to the VAR monitor before ultimately deciding against a red card. Real Madrid argued that the Atlético defender should have been sent off.

The club also pointed to an incident involving Lee Kang-in, who caught Federico Valverde on the ankle. No card was shown for the challenge, and Madrid claimed that the South Korean midfielder should also have received a red card.

“Both decisions had a big impact on the match, which was ultimately decided in Atlético’s favour in the second half,” Real Madrid stated.

The controversy continued after the break when Real Madrid were reduced to 10 men. Dean Huijsen was sent off following a VAR review for a foul on Giuliano Simeone inside the penalty area, with Atlético converting the resulting penalty.

Alejandro Grimaldo put Atlético ahead from the spot before Jonathan David doubled the hosts’ advantage. Antonio Rüdiger scored late to give Real Madrid hope, but Atlético held on for a dramatic 2-1 victory.

Real Madrid’s complaints have added another layer to an already heated derby, with the club making clear that they believe the officiating played a significant role in the result. The claim that Romero and Lee should have been sent off remains a matter of refereeing interpretation, although former referee Iturralde González also argued that both incidents warranted red cards.