The Atlético Madrid vs. Real Madrid clash in the Champions League Round of 16 delivered one of the most controversial penalty shootout moments in recent history. During the decisive spot-kicks, referee Szymon Marciniak ruled out a successful penalty by Julián Álvarez, arguing that the striker touched the ball twice when taking his shot.

The decision, which came after a VAR review, left players, coaches, and fans stunned.

The Controversial Moment

After a 1-0 result in regular time and an overall tied aggregate, the match went to penalties. When Julián Álvarez stepped up for his turn, he slipped while striking the ball, yet it still found the back of the net.

🔹 Thibaut Courtois, Real Madrid's goalkeeper, immediately protested, claiming that Álvarez had made two touches on the ball.
🔹 Referee Szymon Marciniak consulted with the VAR team, and after reviewing the play for several minutes, disallowed the goal and awarded an indirect free-kick to Real Madrid.

What Does the Rule Say?

According to IFAB's Law 14, a penalty taker cannot touch the ball twice before another player makes contact. If this happens, the referee must award an indirect free-kick to the opposing team.

🔹 Official Rule:
📌 "The kicker must not play the ball again until it has touched another player. If they do, an indirect free-kick will be awarded to the opposing team."

This means that if a player accidentally makes a second contact—either with the same foot, the other foot, or their body—the penalty is invalid.

Did Álvarez Really Hit the Ball Twice?

The controversy exploded because no clear replay showed a definite double touch by Julián Álvarez. Even after the VAR review, there was no conclusive footage proving the ball was touched twice.

This led to intense debates among fans, analysts, and the Atlético Madrid camp, who felt robbed by the decision.

💬 Diego Simeone (Atlético Madrid coach) expressed his frustration post-match:
"Did anyone see him touch it twice? Raise your hand! Nobody. That’s it."

Meanwhile, Carlo Ancelotti (Real Madrid coach) was more cautious but stated:
"Yes, he touched it twice. You can see it on the replay."