Atletico Madrid puzzled by penalty call in Lille loss

On October 23, 2024, Atletico Madrid hosted Lille in a crucial Champions League match at the Metropolitano Stadium but experienced a setback, losing 3-1. The match was marked by a controversial moment in the 74th minute when a penalty was awarded to Lille, converted by Jonathan David, leading to a significant turning point in the game. This decision was met with confusion and frustration from Atletico’s players and coaching staff. Players, including coach Diego Simeone, were adamant that the penalty call was unwarranted. They argued that Koke Resurrección had not made contact with the ball using his hands or arms. Instead, the players suggested that the handball might have involved a Lille player. The Italian referee, Marco Guida, did not consult VAR for a review of the incident, which compounded Atletico’s grievances. Despite their efforts, Atletico could not overturn the deficit after conceding the penalty. The loss marked their second in three Champions League games for the season, raising concerns about their form in this prestigious tournament. Coach Simeone expressed his belief that the officials had made a mistake, highlighting the need for improvements in decision-making during such pivotal moments. This result exacerbated Atletico's struggles in the current Champions League campaign, necessitating a strong response in their upcoming fixtures to regain momentum and confidence.