Real Madrid is once again at the center of controversy following the referee appointment for their match against Betis. The Technical Committee of Referees (CTA, in Spanish) has assigned Hernández Hernández as the main referee, with García Verdura in the VAR. This decision has not gone unnoticed at the white club, where they believe this referee has been involved in several controversial actions against the team in recent years.
A referee targeted by madridists
It's no secret that there is no good rapport between Real Madrid and Hernández Hernández. Madrid has been upset for some time and in 2019 requested to avoid Hernández Hernández, according to Juanfe Sanz.
The reasons are not lacking. He has been the referee of several Clásicos in which Madrid felt clearly disadvantaged. One of the most memorable episodes is the match at Camp Nou where Luis Suárez committed a clear foul on Varane.
The fourth referee warned, Hernández Hernández even brought the whistle to his mouth, but ultimately decided not to call anything.
Another case was the two uncalled penalties on Varane in the same match. In one play, he received a stud to the thigh that left him injured. In another, a clear grab inside the area that was also not sanctioned.
Florentino's reaction: "Again"
When the appointment of Hernández Hernández for the Betis-Real Madrid match was announced, the response in the club was one of disbelief. Florentino Pérez did not hide his surprise. "Again," he reportedly said upon learning.
The management believes it is not a coincidence and that, once again, the team will face key refereeing decisions.
Real Madrid believes that in recent years there has been a double standard and that controversial decisions rarely benefit them. The discontent is evident, and confidence in the refereeing system remains low.
A problem without a short-term solution
The white club has long been calling for a reform in Spanish refereeing. They believe the CTA needs profound changes to ensure greater transparency and fairness in soccer. However, so far they have not received satisfactory responses.
Meanwhile, the team focuses on the match against Betis. They know that winning is the best response, but recent history doesn't favor them.
The duel at Villamarín will be key for LaLiga and another test for Spanish refereeing. And, whatever happens, controversy seems assured.