Ancelotti Breaks Silence on Julián Álvarez’s Penalty and Atlético Madrid’s Champions League Elimination

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has spoken for the first time about the controversial penalty incident involving Julián Álvarez during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16. The Argentine’s spot-kick was ruled invalid during the decisive shootout against Atlético Madrid, sparking heated debate. However, Ancelotti remained firm in his stance, stating that "the rule must be respected."

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Julián Álvarez’s Disallowed Penalty: What Happened?

The dramatic Madrid Derby at the Cívitas Metropolitano ended in a penalty shootout after a 1-0 result for Atlético in regulation time, leveling the aggregate score. Julián Álvarez stepped up to take his penalty, but as he struck the ball, he slipped slightly, making involuntary double contact with it.

Real Madrid players, led by Thibaut Courtois, immediately protested, arguing that the ball had been touched twice. Referee Szymon Marciniak, after consulting the VAR, applied IFAB Law 14, which states that a player executing a penalty cannot touch the ball twice before another player makes contact. As a result, the goal was disallowed, and Atlético Madrid was eliminated.

Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez scores a penalty during the penalty shootout wich is later disallowed after a VAR review

Ancelotti’s Response: “The Rule Must Be Respected”

During his pre-match press conference ahead of Real Madrid’s quarterfinal clash against Arsenal, Ancelotti was asked if he believed the rule should be changed. The Italian manager kept his response brief:

"There’s nothing to discuss. The rule exists, and it must be respected."

Ancelotti refused to be drawn into controversy, shifting focus to his team’s upcoming Champions League challenge.

Real Madrid Focused on Arsenal Quarterfinal

For Real Madrid, the Champions League quarterfinals are now the main priority. Their next test will be a tough matchup against Premier League contenders Arsenal, who have been in top form this season.

"We are happy to be in the quarterfinals. We are not concerned about what happened in the past. Our focus is entirely on the next game, ensuring we maintain a strong rhythm," Ancelotti emphasized.

Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid remains frustrated with the penalty decision, with Diego Simeone and several players expressing their disappointment. However, for Real Madrid, the controversial moment is behind them, and their full attention is now on their path toward a potential 15th Champions League title.