La Liga Refereeing Body Admits Error Over Lee Kang-in's Tackle on Federico Valverde in Madrid Derby
The La Liga refereeing committee, known as the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA), has admitted to a significant error in last weekend's intense Madrid derby where Atletico Madrid defeated Real Madrid 2-1. During the match, referee Miguel Angel Ortiz Arias and the VAR team failed to send off Atletico's Lee Kang-in for a dangerous tackle that severely injured Real captain Federico Valverde.
CTA Confirms Red Card Should Have Been Given
According to reports from AS, the CTA recognized that Lee’s challenge, which caused serious trauma to Valverde's left ankle, warranted a straight red card. Despite the referee having a clear view and the VAR team's opportunity to intervene, no punishment was handed out during the game. Real Madrid's medical staff later revealed the severity of Valverde’s injury, adding to the club's frustration over the lack of action on the field.
Other Key Officiating Decisions Reviewed
The CTA also examined two other controversial moments from the derby. They agreed with the delayed VAR decision to send off Dean Huijsen of Real Madrid for a professional foul on Giuliano Simeone. On the other hand, they described referee Arias's decision not to send off Cristian Romero for a risky tackle on Jude Bellingham as confusing but ultimately accepted it.
Jose Mourinho Criticizes Refereeing
"The referee had no experience to officiate a derby. He’s 41 years old. He’s a poor referee who’s only ever done minor matches," Mourinho said after the match."Congratulations to the refereeing committee for this appointment. But Mr Trujillo does have a history with Real Madrid. In the Cup, in Girona, Osasuna. He’s a VAR official with a lot of history."
The Real Madrid manager directed his anger at both the referee and VAR official Daniel Jesus Trujillo Suarez following the defeat.
VAR Failures Cast Shadow Over Derby
The entire derby was marred by inconsistent refereeing decisions. Initially, Arias booked Bellingham for the collision with Romero, but VAR overturned this, showing a lack of accurate game reading. Still, the failure to review Lee’s tackle on Valverde stands out as the most damaging oversight.
The CTA’s acknowledgment offers little consolation to Real Madrid, especially since Valverde had been a key player under Mourinho, participating in every match this season and scoring in the Champions League. His absence will leave a big gap in midfield for a team already struggling to keep pace in La Liga.
Impact on Title Race and Future Fixtures
This loss drops Real Madrid to fourth place in the league standings, six points behind leaders Barcelona. The focus now shifts to bouncing back as they prepare to host Villarreal on October 10, following the international break. After that, a crucial Champions League away fixture against Roma awaits.
Valverde’s International Prospects in Doubt
The injury also complicates Valverde’s future with the Uruguay national team. He is now doubtful for upcoming friendlies against Japan and South Korea, the latter being Lee Kang-in’s country, creating an ironic twist for Uruguay coach Diego Forlan.
Upcoming La Liga Matches
- Deportivo Alaves vs Atletico Madrid - 10 Oct 2026, 17:15
- Real Madrid vs Villarreal - 10 Oct 2026, 22:00
