Atlético de Madrid’s dreams of progressing in the UEFA Champions League were extinguished on March 12, 2025, amid controversy surrounding the disallowed penalty kick of Julián Álvarez, marking another chapter of heated debate over the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system.
Having initially equalized against Real Madrid, Atlético was competing fiercely when they were forced to settle the match via penalty shootout, only to lose after two missed penalties contrasted with Real Madrid’s single miss. The incident surrounding Álvares’ goal—which he executed only to have it ruled out due to VAR intervention—has drawn intense scrutiny and criticism from the club’s president.
Enrique Cerezo did not hold back on his feelings about the VAR system, calling it "a terrifying tool" during his interview with Telemundo Deportes. He believed it produces only unfair outcomes for teams like Atlético, stating, "No me gusta el VAR, pero no es que lo diga ahora, siempre lo he dicho. No critico el VAR por el error del otro día. Porque no es un error del árbitro; es un error del VAR. No sé dónde vieron que el balón tocó dos veces la misma pierna de un jugador." Cerezo’s remarks highlighted the frustration felt by players, staff, and fans alike as they grappled with the aftermath of such pivotal decisions made by the match officials.
The drama surrounding the penalty stemmed from the advice provided by VAR, which deemed Álvarez had committed the unintentional error of touching the ball twice during his kick. This judgment was confirmed by UEFA, who followed up 20 hours later with video evidence, yet it was met with skepticism, particularly from Atlético's camp. Cerezo expressed his disbelief, claiming the replays did not convincingly justify the decision.
The disallowed penalty came during what Cerezo described as the club's most significant aspirations across three competitions: the Champions League, Copa del Rey, and La Liga. "Nos truncaron una de las máximas ilusiones,” he lamented, referring to how the VAR controversy dashed their hopes of advancing. With their elimination from the Champions League confirmed, the players' focus shifted to Los Rojiblancos’ La Liga title challenge against Barcelona.
Cerezo's discontent is not merely personal; it reflects broader worries about the VAR system's impact on the integrity of football. He suggested it was initially intended to promote fairness, but instead has ushered more disputes and controversies. By aiming for precise judgments, it ironically sparked more frustration among fans and players alike.
Looking forward, Atlético Madrid will face FC Barcelona next, which presents both a challenge and opportunity. Currently engaged in tight competition for La Liga honors, Atlético sits battling with Barcelona and their long-term rivals, Real Madrid. The upcoming match holds significant weight, potentially dictifying their standing as they aim to regain momentum following the Champions League exit.
Cerezo has expressed trust and hope for his players, particularly praising Álvarez’s potential impact, as they pivot from Champions League heartbreak to domestic success. Atlético’s title aspirations lie not just on individual performances but also refining their approach to avoid the pitfalls highlighted by VAR setbacks.
With emotions still raw from their European departure and glaring questions surrounding officiation, Atlético de Madrid faces its next challenge with renewed determination to prove their mettle against formidable opponents. This juxtaposition of aspirations and disappointment frames the narrative surrounding this storied football club as they continue to navigate challenges on and off the pitch.