Catalan media condemn Mbappe penalty decision at El Sardinero

Kylian Mbappe’s penalty for Real Madrid against Racing Santander at El Sardinero has sparked fierce criticism in the Catalan press, which claimed the Spanish giants benefited from a controversial refereeing decision.

The incident provoked angry reactions from the home players and supporters after referee Munuera Montero awarded Real Madrid a spot-kick following a review by the video assistant referee (VAR).

Catalan newspaper Sport led its coverage with the headline: “Scandal at El Sardinero! Anger over controversial Mbappe penalty.” It said the contact between Mbappe and Racing Santander defender Prati was “extremely slight”, yet a penalty was given after the referee watched the incident again on the pitch-side monitor.

Mundo Deportivo also criticised the decision, describing Real Madrid’s opening goal as coming from a “ridiculous penalty”. The paper said Prati had made no more than a light touch with his arm against Mbappe’s chest before the French forward went down inside the area.

According to the newspaper, VAR official Mila Alvendiz did not recommend that Munuera Montero review the incident because he did not believe there had been a clear error.

The clash took place in the 10th minute after Mbappe dribbled past a Racing Santander defender inside the penalty area. Munuera Montero then awarded the foul, prompting strong protests from both the players and the crowd.

Mbappe took responsibility for the penalty and put Real Madrid ahead in the 11th minute. He struck firmly to goalkeeper Aguirrezabala’s right. The goalkeeper anticipated the direction of the shot but was unable to keep it out.