In the post-match press conference following ten-man Real Madrid's 1-2 defeat to Atlético Madrid, José Mourinho directly produced a sheet of paper, the top half displaying Lee Kang-in treading on Federico Valverde's ankle, and the bottom half showing Romero stomping on Jude Bellingham's knee.
Mourinho stated: For the good of Real Madrid, controversies (which certainly exist) should not overshadow football itself, or rather, in this match, what they overshadow is the complete absence of football.
Real Madrid have every reason to protest against the foul challenges committed by Romero and Lee Kang-in. Both offenses could easily have warranted red cards, and the second foul against Valverde is barely open to debate. Referee Miguel Ortiz Arias failed to see anything clearly, and VAR chose to tune out right alongside him—all of which is undeniable.
However, refereeing decisions are one thing, while Real Madrid's utterly dreadful performance is a completely different matter. It is better not to conflate the two; otherwise, controversy will ultimately serve as an excuse (for the team's poor display).
In the 38th minute of the match, the referee rescinded a yellow card initially shown for Jude Bellingham's slide tackle, instead booking Romero with a yellow card for stomping on the knee. ↓
In the 44th minute, Lee Kang-in stepped on Federico Valverde's ankle from behind and to the side; the referee blew for a foul but did not brandish any card. ↓
