Referee Ángel Ortiz Arias Faces Suspension After Controversial Real Madrid Match

The fallout from Sunday’s explosive Madrid Derby continues to dominate headlines across Spain. Referee Ángel Ortiz Arias is reportedly set for an incoming suspension following a string of high-profile mistakes during Atlético Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Real Madrid. Reports emerging from Spain indicate that the refereeing committee has stepped in after several critical calls directly altered the momentum of the match at the Metropolitano.

High-Stakes Mistakes at the Metropolitano

From the opening whistle, the derby was filled with intense physical battles. However, the spotlight quickly shifted to Ángel Ortiz Arias after a series of controversial decisions. Real Madrid voiced extreme frustration after two dangerous tackles went without direct red cards.

The first major incident occurred when defender Cristian Romero made heavy contact with Jude Bellingham’s knee. In a rare case of mistaken identity, Ángel Ortiz Arias initially brandished a yellow card to Bellingham before VAR alerted him to review the monitor. Although the booking was transferred to Romero, Real Madrid maintained that the severity of the studs-up challenge warranted an immediate ejection. Shortly after, Lee Kang-in caught Federico Valverde on the ankle with his studs. Despite taking place right in front of the match official, no card was shown, leaving Real Madrid bewildered by the lack of VAR review.

Archivo VAR Details Incoming Discipline

According to an evaluation by referee analysis outlet Archivo VAR, Ángel Ortiz Arias delivered a chaotic officiating display featuring four significant errors and multiple VAR interventions. The analysis highlighted that Ángel Ortiz Arias had the authority to establish firm control over aggressive play early on but failed to read the intensity of the derby.

Because these blunders directly impacted the final outcome, Spanish refereeing authorities are imposing a minimum two-match ban on Ángel Ortiz Arias. For an official handed the responsibility of steering one of football’s biggest rivalries, the aftermath represents a severe setback.

Real Madrid Left Frustrated After Derby Defeat

The defeat leaves Real Madrid reflecting on a match heavily shaped by disciplinary oversights. Los Blancos fought hard late in the second half, but the failure to dismiss opponent players during key moments left the squad deeply dissatisfied with the refereeing standard. As La Liga continues, Real Madrid will aim to bounce back quickly and put the derby refereeing drama behind them.