Real Madrid blame ‘catastrophic’ refereeing for Atletico derby defeat

Real Madrid have described their 2-1 defeat by Atletico Madrid in the Madrid derby as a match defined by “catastrophic refereeing errors”.

Atletico secured victory in the seventh round of La Liga through goals from Alex Grimaldo and Jonathan David. Antonio Rudiger scored Real Madrid’s only goal.

In a statement published on their official website, Real Madrid criticised referee Ortiz Arias, claiming he failed to send off Atletico Madrid players Christian Romero and Kang.

The defeat was Real Madrid’s second of the season under Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho. Their other loss came against Real Betis.

The result moved Atletico Madrid to 16 points in second place, five points behind leaders Barcelona. Real Madrid remain third on 15 points.