Controversial VAR Decision Eliminates Atlético Madrid from Champions League

UEFA defends disallowed penalty goal against Real Madrid, sparking debate over the interpretation of double-touch rules.

Atlético Madrid's Julián Álvarez had a penalty goal disallowed during a Champions League shootout against Real Madrid due to a double-touch violation detected by VAR.
The decision hinged on Álvarez's apparent unintentional contact with the ball using his standing foot, a rule violation that remains contentious among players, coaches, and analysts.
UEFA confirmed the VAR's ruling but announced discussions with FIFA and IFAB to review the rule's application in cases of unintentional double touches.
Real Madrid advanced to the quarterfinals after winning the shootout 4-2, with Atlético's Marcos Llorente missing a decisive penalty.
The incident has reignited broader criticism of VAR transparency and decision-making, with calls for referees to personally review critical footage on pitch-side monitors.