Atlético de Madrid asserted their authority over Valencia at Mestalla (0-3), in a match that, despite the clear result, was not without controversy. At the center of the controversy was a possible handball by Javi Galán inside the Colchoneros' area, an action that sparked debate. Simeone, after the match, gave his clear opinion about this play.
Simeone: "I Don't Understand Anything"
During the post-match press conference, Simeone was questioned about the controversial play, in which a shot by Sadiq Umar hit Javi Galán's hand. After reviewing the replay, the Argentine coach did not hide his bewilderment.
"They showed me the image of the penalty and it's the same play as in the Euro Cup. It hits his hand, I don't understand anything," stated Cholo with a serious expression. The Rojiblanco coach referred to a similar action that occurred in the last Euro Cup, where a hand contact inside the area was indeed sanctioned as a penalty.
"I Hope There's More Clarity"
Beyond the play itself, Simeone took the opportunity to express his dissatisfaction with the lack of a unified criterion in refereeing decisions.
"I hope it's always clearer for everyone, because the situation is hard to understand: one day it's going to be a penalty, another not... I wish the same line could be managed for all teams," the Argentine coach concluded.
A Solid Atlético de Madrid Against a Valencia Without Answers
Despite the controversy, Atlético de Madrid was far superior to Valencia and secured a key victory before a demanding schedule. They will face Barcelona three times and Real Madrid twice in the next 21 days.
The Rojiblancos, led by Antoine Griezmann and Julián, set the course of the match in the first half and managed to control the Che team's attempts to react. Ángel Correa sealed the win with the third goal in the final stretch, dispelling any doubts about the outcome of the clash.
Simeone and the Controversy: An Open Debate
Simeone's words about the unawarded penalty to Valencia reflect a debate that remains current in soccer: the lack of consistency in refereeing criteria. Meanwhile, Atlético de Madrid continues on its path, focused on the challenges ahead and with an eye on continuing to compete at the highest level.