Bellingham sent off as controversial call sees Real Madrid draw Valencia
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Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid) protest to the referee Jesus Gil Manzano Valencia Estadio de Mestalla Spain *** Spain, Valencia, 02 03 2024, Estadio de Mestalla, FC Valencia v FC Real Madrid La Liga || Image credit: Imago

Bellingham sent off as controversial call sees Real Madrid draw Valencia

Faruq Ibrahim 02:50 - 03.03.2024

Jude Bellingham shown red for dissent after referee blows final whistle just before he scored what could have been the winner.

In a dramatic turn of events at the Valencia clash, Jude Bellingham's moment of triumph turned into dismay as his last-gasp goal was nullified by the referee's whistle, ending the game in a 2-2 draw. 

The English midfielder's late header, which seemed to seal a remarkable comeback for Los Blancos, was disallowed, sparking controversy and leading to his red card for dissent.

Valencia 2-2 Real Madrid

In what was a gripping encounter between the two Spanish football giants, Valencia took the first swing.

Los Che scored the opener in the 27th minute, when Fran Perez shot-cum-cross made its way to Hugo Duro who deflected it into the net. Three minutes later, Roman Yaremchuk latched onto a Carvajal back pass to Andriy Lunin. He rounded the Ukrainian and doubled the lead for the hosts. 

Just before half-time, Vinicius tapped in from close range to hand Real Madrid a lifeline. In the 76th minute, the Brazil international was deemed to have marginally beat offside and from Brahim Diaz's assist, scored an equaliser. 

Bellingham's Disallowed Winner Sparks Outrage

In the dying moments of the match, Bellingham thought he had completed an astonishing comeback for Real Madrid, heading the ball into the net after a spirited fightback led by a Vinicius Jr brace. 

The goal would have capped a thrilling 3-2 victory, but the referee's decision to end the match during an attacking phase left players and fans alike in disbelief. 

The controversial call has ignited discussions about the timing of the game's conclusion, overshadowing what could have been a narrative of resilience and victory for Madrid.

Ancelotti reveals what Vinicius said and defended him

Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid's tactician, was quick to defend Bellingham in the post-match discourse, highlighting the unusual nature of the game's end.

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti  || Credit: Imago
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti || Credit: Imago

Ancelotti's support for his player underlines the team's frustration, emphasizing that Bellingham's outburst was a reaction to the heat of the moment, not an insult aimed at the referee. 

"Bellingham told him 'it's a f*king goal', he didn't insult him," Ancelotti explained, shedding light on the intensity of the situation. 

As the team prepares for their next challenge, the focus is on regaining composure, though the echoes of the Valencia clash linger, marking a contentious chapter in Los Blancos' season.

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