Phantom Penalties: The Challenge of Precision
The Metropolitano witnessed a controversial moment during the penalty shootout when Julián Álvarez’s goal was disallowed for touching the ball twice after slipping. This decision, based on the rule that prohibits the kicker from touching the ball a second time before another player does, generated an intense debate.
According to experts like Eduardo Iturralde González, the VOR room may have alerted referee Marciniak about the infraction. These types of situations, although uncommon, are not unprecedented in the world of football.
Similar cases were recalled, such as one in the 2022 World Cup final where Messi scored a goal that, apparently, also involved a double touch, but was validated. Another example remembered was a 2017 European derby at the Vicente Calderón, where Griezmann scored a penalty after slipping and touching the ball with both feet.
On that occasion, the goal was awarded, showing the inconsistency in the application of the rule. Other footballers like Carlos Bacca or Roger Martínez also suffered the annulment of their goals for the same reason. Even River Plate experienced something similar in the Copa Libertadores.
The annulment of Álvarez’s goal sparked controversy, but also demonstrated the thoroughness with which VAR analyzes each play. Despite the adverse result, the Rojiblancos remain faithful and confident that the team will overcome this setback with the determination and fighting spirit that characterize it. Aúpa Atleti!
