Real Madrid’s dramatic draw against Real Betis has sparked yet another refereeing storm, but this time the reaction has come from the Spanish media.
The controversy centres around Betis’ stoppage-time equaliser, a goal that came in the 93rd minute following a challenge that many within Madrid circles believe should have been penalised.
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The incident has quickly become one of the most debated moments of the La Liga season.
Among those who reacted most strongly was Jose Luis Sanchez on El Chiringuito TV, where emotions ran high during the live broadcast.
What was said?
As Sanchez analysed the decision and its wider implications, he launched into a furious rant, suggesting the outcome of the match had effectively been decided away from the pitch.
“They should all be going after the referee. They decided this match in Las Rozas.
“Once again, they decided this match in Las Rozas. Betis drew this match from Las Rozas,” Sanchez began.
Building on that frustration, he escalated his criticism by questioning the integrity of the competition and calling for accountability at a higher level.
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“I hope they come out of the trial and make the whole of Spanish football blush. It’s a disgrace. This is already a disgrace to the competition.
Real Betis’ equaliser was a foul on Ferland Mendy. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
“It’s a bloody disgrace. And now you keep whitewashing this competition. Keep whitewashing this competition for Madrid.”
Repeated patterns
The journalist then shifted focus to what he described as a repeated pattern of decisions going against Madrid, pointing to specific moments in the match, particularly the physical duel inside the box involving Ferland Mendy.
“Madrid are disrespected season after season in this way. What happened in the first half is a disgrace.
“And this with the referees on top of it: it’s Soto Grado and Gonzalez Fuertes.
“Antony grabs Mendy inside the box, pulls him down, commits a foul, and it ends in a goal in the 93rd minute. It’s a disgrace to the competition.”
As tensions peaked during the broadcast, Sanchez delivered what quickly became the most viral line of the night.
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“Just give Barcelona the title already. Give it to them. But let Soto Grado give it to them, or let him hand it over.
“What’s his name? Fran Soto? Let Fran Soto hand it over to them now,” he concluded.
