Real Madrid criticizes Kylian Mbappé’s penalty refusal in expensive stalemate.
MADRID — Álvaro Arbeloa stated that Real Madrid should have received what could have been a pivotal penalty in their 1-1 draw against Girona — a result that led to the team being booed by supporters at the Bernabéu, further diminishing their aspirations for the LaLiga title.
Midfielder Federico Valverde gave Madrid the lead from long range in the 51st minute, but Thomas Lemar equalized for Girona with a spectacular goal just 11 minutes later.
Nevertheless, the most significant topic of discussion following the match arose in the 87th minute, when Kylian Mbappé seemed to be struck in the face by defender Vitor Reis within the penalty area, a challenge that referee Javier Alberola did not consider a foul, and VAR did not intervene.
Madrid now trails leaders Barcelona by six points, with Barça having played one match less, ahead of their derby against Espanyol on Saturday.
“For me, it’s a penalty from here to the moon,” Arbeloa remarked in his post-match press conference. “I don’t comprehend it, and I doubt anyone does … You know my stance [on referees], and the facts support it.
play2:02Are Real Madrid officially out of the LaLiga title race?
The ‘FC TV’ team reacts to Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw with Girona in LaLiga.
“It’s a situation that is very clear to me. There have been many instances like this for us, with referees such as this one, and also last week in Mallorca. It’s the same as always.”
Madrid has now gone three matches without a victory this month, following their 2-1 defeat to Mallorca on April 4, and subsequently losing 2-1 to Bayern Munich in their Champions League quarterfinal first leg on Tuesday.
“To win, we must give 200%. We cannot win at 90%, or at least not consistently,” Arbeloa stated. “If we want to have more assurance against teams we are superior to, we need to give 200%, otherwise incidents like this can occur.
“Until [the title] is out of reach, we will continue to fight.”
Arbeloa dismissed any concerns regarding the scoring form of Mbappé or Vinícius Júnior, and commended Jude Bellingham, who made his first start against Girona since returning from injury.
“I can’t be worried about players with the statistics [Mbappé and Vini] possess,” Arbeloa said. “They are two of the four or five best players in the world … We need to enhance many aspects collectively, particularly against teams that defend deeply.
“Bellingham appeared good, agile, and confident. It’s natural for him to feel fatigued after such a long absence. This is the first game he has started. However, it has been beneficial for him to regain his rhythm.”
Madrid will head to Munich next week to face Bayern in the quarterfinal second leg on Wednesday.
