Real Madrid has issued a statement following the controversial decision by referee Gil Manzano to disallow Jude Bellingham’s late goal against Valencia.
Valencia surged to a 2-0 lead within the first half-hour, courtesy of goals from Hugo Duro (27′) and Roman Yaremchuk (30′). However, Real Madrid staged a remarkable comeback at the Mestalla, with Vinícius Júnior (45+5′, 76′) netting a brace.
In the dying moments of the game, it appeared Carlo Ancelotti’s side had secured victory when Bellingham nodded in a header. Yet, referee Gil Manzano blew the final whistle while Brahim Diaz’s cross was still airborne.
The decision sparked controversy, prompting Real Madrid to release a statement addressing the situation. Their statement, as reported by Los Blancos’ website, reads:
“An unprecedented refereeing decision by Gil Manzano prevented Real Madrid from beating Valencia at Mestalla. With the score at 2-2 and in the last play of the game, Brahim crossed into the box, and Bellingham headed home to make it 3-2.”
The statement continued:
“But the referee disallowed the goal, as he had blown for full-time when the Malagueño’s pass was still in the air. The LaLiga leaders deserved all three points but had to settle for a point after coming back from 2-0 down.
Two goals from Vini Jr. tied the match, which was finally settled by Gil Manzano’s decision.” Jude Bellingham was sent off for complaining to the referee.
