Spanish FA Referees Admit Crucial Error in Real Madrid vs. Sociedad Match (Video)

Spanish Referee Admits Costly Red Card Blunder That Nearly Derailed Real Madrid's Title Hopes

Spain's refereeing committee has acknowledged a critical error that could have shifted the entire La Liga title race. Referee Jesús Manzano wrongfully sent off Real Madrid defender Deen Housen during their narrow 2-1 victory over Real Sociedad, a decision that forced the defending champions to play nearly an hour with ten men and nearly cost them crucial points in what promises to be a tight championship battle.

The Controversial Decision That Sparked Outrage

In the 32nd minute of Saturday's match, Manzano brandished a straight red card to Housen for allegedly impeding a Real Sociedad player during a counter-attack as the "last defender." However, video replays clearly showed Brazilian teammate Éder Militão positioned alongside Housen, making him not the last man back. Under FIFA laws, this situation warranted only a yellow card, not an immediate dismissal.

The error becomes even more glaring when examining the specifics: the Sociedad player was 40 meters from goal, didn't have full control of the ball, and Militão was clearly visible as the actual last defender. These factors should have been obvious to both the on-field referee and the VAR officials.

VAR System Fails When It Matters Most

Perhaps more damaging than the initial mistake was the complete failure of the Video Assistant Referee system. VAR official Figueroa Vásquez failed to intervene and call Manzano to review his decision, despite clear evidence that the red card was incorrect. This represents a fundamental breakdown in the technology that was specifically designed to prevent such consequential errors.

According to reports from Marca, both officials now face potential suspensions, with Manzano unlikely to officiate any Real Madrid matches for the remainder of the season. The incident has raised serious questions about referee training and VAR protocol implementation in Spanish football.

Strategic Impact on Title Race Dynamics

Playing with ten men for nearly an hour against a well-organized Real Sociedad side, Real Madrid's victory becomes even more impressive in hindsight. However, the psychological and physical toll of such situations can accumulate over a long season. In a league where Barcelona and Atlético Madrid are expected to challenge strongly, every point matters significantly.

The incident mirrors similar controversial decisions that have historically influenced title races across Europe's top leagues. Manchester City's 2011-12 Premier League triumph and Liverpool's near-miss in 2013-14 both featured pivotal refereeing moments that shaped final standings.

Ancelotti's Diplomatic Response Masks Deeper Concerns

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti revealed his post-match conversation with Manzano, stating: "I believe Housen deserved only a yellow card. Militão was nearby, and the ball wasn't under Sociedad's control. The referee gave me an explanation about the red card, but I wasn't convinced."

Ancelotti's measured response reflects the delicate balance coaches must maintain when criticizing officials, knowing that overly harsh comments can result in touchline bans or fines that hurt their team's prospects.

Broader Implications for Spanish Football's Credibility

This admission of error, while commendable for its transparency, highlights ongoing concerns about officiating standards in La Liga. Spanish football has invested heavily in VAR technology and referee training, yet high-profile mistakes continue to occur in crucial matches.

The incident also raises questions about referee assignment protocols. If Manzano is indeed barred from officiating Real Madrid matches this season, it suggests the Spanish Football Federation recognizes the severity of the error and its potential impact on competitive integrity.

For Real Madrid, the victory ultimately masked what could have been a season-defining moment. Playing with ten men away from home against quality opposition typically results in dropped points, but their resilience in securing the win may prove crucial come May when final league positions are determined.