Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti was unrestrained in his criticism of referee, Guillermo Cuadra Fernández, though Los Blancos beat Sevilla 3-2, with a stoppage-time saviour from Karim Benzema. 

Speaking at the post-match conference, the Italian told DAZN “Vinicius’ goal was never a handball. It’s difficult for me to understand the handballs. It seems the referee had a plan for the game”, adding, “Vinicius told me that he didn’t touch the ball. I can’t believe the ref disallowed that, if he had given the red card to Camavinga as well – his plan would have worked perfectly.” 

Ancelotti’s red card reference is from the first half of the game, when the French midfielder took down Sevilla’s Anthony Martial, to stop a counter. The challenge, which didn’t come in contact with the ball, earned Martial a yellow instead, for a temper flare at the referee’s decision to let Camavinga off without consequences.

Also Read | Ruben Loftus-Cheek vows Chelsea revenge against Liverpool in FA Cup final

Though Sevilla was up 2-0 in the first half of the game, Madrid netted one, thanks to Rodrygo, in the early parts of the second half, before Vinicius’ goal was disallowed due to the handball call. 

However, the La Liga toppers went through with Nacho’s equalizer and Benzema’s deal-sealer.  

Speaking of Madrid’s ability to bounce back from tough situations, Ancelotti noted “We’re getting used to such games, this team is capable of special things. Everyone is waiting for Real Madrid to have a flat tire, but we’re cruising through”, adding, “I’m not saying that I am surprised because this team does not surprise me, but this second half makes me proud. I have to thank all of the players”. 

Also Read | La Liga: Carrasco penalty gives Atletico 100th-minute win against Espanyol

He also praised Rodrygo’s performance and noted Camavinga’s improvements, saying “Rodrygo made a difference, just as Camavinga did these last few games. We’re working on them to improve and start getting into starting line-up”.