Jude Bellingham was sent off with a red card following the disallowed winning goal for Real Madrid, a decision labeled as ‘scandalous.’
Real Madrid rallied from a 2-0 deficit to secure a 2-2 draw against Valencia, with Vinicius Junior scoring both goals. This fixture last season was marred by abhorrent racial abuse directed at him.
- Video: Erling Haaland produced miss of the season against Man Utd
- Referee explains why Darwin Nunez’s goal for Liverpool vs Nottingham should’ve been ruled out
- Roy Keane names the Man Utd star who ‘frightens’ his team-mates
Despite their comeback, Real Madrid felt robbed of victory when Bellingham’s header in the 99th minute was disallowed.
The referee had blown the full-time whistle just as Brahim Diaz was delivering the cross from the edge of the area to Bellingham.
The abrupt call by Gil Manzano left players bewildered and understandably outraged. Real Madrid’s players and coaching staff surrounded the referee immediately, resulting in Bellingham receiving a red card – his first since joining the La Liga giants last summer.
It was reported that the 20-year-old midfielder screamed at Manzano: ‘It’s a f***ing goal, the ball is in the air! What the f*** is that!
This was confirmed by the England international himself as he retweeted several posts related to the incident post-match.
This included one post from @totalcristiano that read: ‘The referee literally waited for Brahim Diaz to cross the ball! THIS IS A SCANDAL!’
Cleanest clip of the robbery incident until now!
REPLAYS SHOW GIL MANZANO BLEW THE WHISTLE ALMOST WHEN JUDE BELLINGHAM’S HEADER HAD ENTERED THE GOAL!
Biggest ever refereeing scandal in football.pic.twitter.com/OvLLoLQ1Xe
— Tamoghna(Inactive) (@ReyesDeUniverso) March 2, 2024
Real Madrid described Manzano’s premature decision to end the game as ‘unprecedented’ and stated their intention to appeal Bellingham’s red card.
Moreover, Bellingham joined several players in extending their heartfelt wishes to Valencia star Mouctar Diakhaby, who endured a dreadful leg injury during the match.
