Penalty decisions under scrutiny after contrasting Mbappe and Isak incidents

Two similar penalty-area incidents involving Kylian Mbappe and Alexander Isak have reignited debate over refereeing standards and the use of video technology in football.

Mbappe was awarded a penalty during Real Madrid’s 3-0 win over Racing Santander after colliding with defender Matteo Prati. The France striker converted the spot-kick to put his side ahead, but the decision prompted strong protests from the home team, who felt the contact was not sufficient to justify a penalty.

Racing Santander captain Inigo Sainz-Maza said the incident did not warrant a foul and described the contact as extremely slight. Manager Jose Alberto also questioned the different ways in which video assistant referees intervene, asking why some incidents are reviewed while others are not.

Jose Alberto said the replay showed no clear action that should have led to a penalty being given. He added that players were entitled to make contact while competing for the ball, but should not be allowed to bring an opponent down or hold them. The decision, he said, was both surprising and concerning.

The controversy was heightened by a separate incident in Liverpool’s match against Arsenal at Anfield.

Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber appeared to pull Isak’s shirt inside the penalty area as the Liverpool forward tried to reach a cross. The tug affected Isak’s movement and prevented him from making proper contact with the ball.

Despite the apparent pull shown in television replays, the referee did not award a penalty. The decision remained unchanged after the incident was reviewed during a match Arsenal won 1-0, with Kai Havertz scoring the only goal in the 16th minute.

The contrast between the two incidents became even more striking because Isak remained on his feet and did not appear to exaggerate his reaction after being pulled. Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola responded sarcastically when asked whether the striker should have gone to ground.

“Just the fact that you are asking me whether he fell over explains everything,” he said. “Next time, they should tell Alexander to stay on the ground, otherwise they will not award penalties.”

Mbappe therefore benefited from a disputed collision against Racing Santander, while Isak received no spot-kick despite the pull from Timber.

The two decisions have prompted a wider question about whether a player’s reaction and willingness to fall are now carrying more weight than the offence itself when penalties are considered.