Referee Silences After Julián Álvarez Penal Disallowed, Atlético Madrid’s Champions League Exit
Controversial Penal Anulado a Julián Álvarez en Champions League
Table of Contents
A contentious moment unfolded during a Champions League match when a penalty taken by Julián Álvarez was disallowed. The referee, Szymon Marciniak, played a pivotal role in the decision, bringing a potential infringement to the attention of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
Álvarez, in his attempt, struck the ball with his right foot. He then lost his balance, and the ball ended up near the crossbar as Thibaut Courtois dove to his left.
Real Madrid players protested,claiming Álvarez touched the ball twice during the penalty kick. They urged Marciniak to disallow the goal.
Ultimately, the referee conceded to the request, nullifying Álvarez’s goal. This decision gave Real Madrid an advantage, contributing to their 4-2 victory and advancement to the Champions League quarter-finals.
Referee’s Explanation
Marciniak addressed the situation, stating, “Yo fui quien informó a los árbitros del VAR de que había un 99% de posibilidad de un doble toque por parte de Álvarez, y ellos lo revisaron minuciosamente” (I was the one who informed the VAR referees that there was a 99% possibility of a double touch by Álvarez, and they reviewed it thoroughly).

He further added, “Para ser sincero, nunca me había enfrentado a una situación así en mi carrera arbitral, pero los jugadores conocen las reglas” (“To be honest, I had never faced such a situation in my refereeing career, but the players know the rules”). Marciniak also officiated the 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France.
Julián Álvarez’s Disallowed Penalty: A Q&A Breakdown
A controversial penalty decision during a Champions League match has sparked debate. This article breaks down the key aspects of the incident involving Julián Álvarez, providing clear answers to common questions.
What happened with Julián Álvarez’s penalty?
During a Champions League match, Julián Álvarez took a penalty kick. After striking the ball with his right foot, he lost his balance. Real Madrid players protested, alleging that Álvarez touched the ball twice during the attempt. The referee, Szymon marciniak, consulted with VAR and ultimately disallowed the goal.
Why was Julián Álvarez’s penalty disallowed?
The penalty was disallowed due to a double touch. Real Madrid players claimed Álvarez touched the ball twice during the penalty kick, which is against the Laws of the Game. The referee agreed that Álvarez touched the ball twice during the penalty.
What did the referee say about the disallowed penalty?
Referee Szymon Marciniak explained that he informed the VAR referees about a “99% possibility of a double touch by Álvarez,” and they thoroughly reviewed the play. He admitted he had never encountered such a situation in his career but emphasized that “the players know the rules.”
How did the disallowed penalty affect the game?
The disallowing of Álvarez’s goal contributed to Real Madrid’s advantage in the match. Real Madrid won 4-2 and advanced to the Champions League quarter-finals.
Double Touch Rule
The Laws of the Game state it is an infringement if the player touches the ball more than once when kicking it from the penalty mark. The second touch renders the penalty invalid and results in an indirect free kick for the opposing team from the spot of the infringement.
Key players Involved
| Player | Role |
| —————- | —————– |
| Julián Álvarez | Penalty Taker |
| Szymon Marciniak | Referee |
| VAR Referees | Review Officials |
| Thibaut courtois | Goalkeeper |
Additional Information
* Pep Guardiola has since weighed in on the disallowed penalty.
