Real Madrid clinched a dramatic 3-2 victory against Almería in a LaLiga encounter, but controversy marred the match with contentious VAR decisions. Coach Carlo Ancelotti addressed Almería’s grievances and supported the referee’s choices, emphasizing the correctness of the decisions.

Almería stunned Real Madrid with a 2-0 lead at half-time, courtesy of goals from Largie Ramazani and Edgar González. However, the game’s dynamics shifted in the second half, marked by pivotal VAR decisions. Ancelotti acknowledged the opposing team’s frustration while asserting the decisions’ accuracy.

The referee awarded a penalty to Madrid for a Kaiky Fernandes handball, leading to a successful conversion by Jude Bellingham. Almería’s Sergio Arribas had a goal disallowed due to a foul in the build-up, setting the stage for Vinícius Junior’s controversial equalizer with his upper arm. Dani Carvajal secured the win with a late goal.

Ancelotti defended the decisions, clarifying that VAR advises, and the referee ultimately decides. Despite Almería’s dissatisfaction, the coach maintained the correctness of each call. The match showcased the intricacies and debates surrounding VAR’s influence on crucial moments.

Almería players expressed frustration, with Edgar González claiming they were “robbed” and insisting on the unfairness of the decisions. Defender Marc Pubill echoed discontent, suggesting external factors influenced the outcome. Midfielder Gonzalo Melero deemed the match a clear case of being “robbed.”

Ancelotti attributed Madrid’s lackluster first half to fatigue from a challenging fixture schedule, admitting his error in selecting tired players. The team’s recent demanding matches, including a Copa del Rey exit, contributed to a subpar performance.

Real Madrid’s thrilling 3-2 victory against Almería showcased the intense drama that football can offer. While VAR controversies ignited debate and dissatisfaction from Almería, Ancelotti stood by the decisions. The coach acknowledged the team’s first-half struggles, emphasizing the impact of a demanding schedule. As Madrid secures the top spot in LaLiga, the match’s controversies add another layer to the ongoing discussions surrounding VAR’s role in shaping football outcomes.