Real Madrid benefit from controversial VAR decision in Champions League draw

Real Madrid escaped with a draw in their Champions League clash with RB Leipzig after Vinicius Junior was spared a red card for a reckless challenge.

The Brazilian forward scythed down Leipzig defender Willi Orban in the 53rd minute, but VAR decided not to overturn the referee’s decision to show only a yellow card.

Vinicius went on to score the opening goal for Real Madrid 12 minutes later, and Leipzig were left to rue the controversial decision.

The incident sparked outrage on social media, with many fans and pundits calling for Vinicius to be sent off.

Former La Liga referee Iturralde Gonzalez said: “It’s a clear red card. Vinicius goes in with a lot of force and it’s a dangerous challenge.”

Ex-Barcelona player Xavi Hernandez added: “I don’t understand how VAR didn’t intervene. It’s a clear red card.”

The decision will only add to the growing sense of injustice among Real Madrid’s rivals, who believe that the club often benefits from favorable refereeing decisions.

In recent years, Real Madrid have been involved in a number of controversial refereeing decisions, including a penalty awarded to Cristiano Ronaldo in the 2018 Champions League final against Juventus.

The club has also been accused of putting pressure on referees, with former Barcelona president Joan Laporta claiming that Real Madrid have “a pact with the referees.”

Real Madrid have denied any wrongdoing, but the latest controversy will only serve to fuel the suspicions of their rivals.