Real Madrid anger grows over unpunished handball claim in Atletico derby

Real Madrid supporters have pointed to an unreviewed handball involving Atletico Madrid defender Mark Pubill as further evidence of what they regarded as controversial refereeing during the derby.

The incident occurred in the second half, when Kylian Mbappe attempted to shoot from the left side of Real Madrid’s attack. His effort struck Pubill’s hand inside Atletico’s penalty area as the defender moved his arms into the ball’s path.

The moment was not shown again during the live television coverage, but footage from a side angle was shared on social media on Monday morning. The images prompted renewed criticism from Real Madrid fans, who described the incident as a “hidden” penalty claim.

According to Spanish newspaper Marca, Mbappe’s shot hit Pubill’s hands inside his own penalty area. The defender initially appeared to be keeping his arms behind his body, before bringing them forward at the last moment. The ball then made direct contact with his hand as it travelled towards him.

The speed of the incident meant there was no replay during the match, leaving viewers without a further look at the contact. Several social media accounts later circulated the alternative angle, reigniting debate over referee Ortiz Arias’ decisions in the derby.

The handball was not the only moment in which Real Madrid felt it had been disadvantaged. The club also believed Cristian Romero and Kang-in Lee could have received red cards during the match.

Ortiz Arias’ appointment had already surprised people within Real Madrid because of his lack of experience in officiating matches of this type. The Pubill incident has now given the club’s supporters another reason to question the referee’s performance.

One post by the account Fanaticos Real Madrid asked: “Do you know what minute this happened? Pubill was booked in the 35th minute. We saw no replays.”