FC Barcelona emerged victorious from its first match of the season in LaLiga, but once again did so amid controversy. It wasn't able to overcome Mallorca without the referee's help, who made decisions that clearly benefited the culés. After what happened, the well-known panelist on various television programs, Kiko Matamoros, has spoken out and hasn't held back.
Kiko Matamoros, forceful
In recent months, Kiko Matamoros has taken on a more "sportsmanlike" role on his X account. He regularly comments on soccer news, always from a pro Real Madrid perspective, which is the team he supports.
Speaking about what happened in the Mallorca-Barça match, he was very clear: "This league will be followed by the president of the federation's mother. Stealing from minute 1. They have no solution or shame."
Later, he also wanted to recall a message he posted in recent days. He threatened with a "complaint to the ordinary courts" if he sees the "slightest sign of manipulation in the VAR or on the field." He was clear about it: "There is no other way."
The statistics don't lie
One statistic draws significant attention in LaLiga over the past decade. According to official records, in the last 10 seasons there has been a notable difference in the number of red cards suffered by Barcelona's and Real Madrid's opponents.
While referees have shown red cards to the opponents of the blaugrana side on 62 occasions, the adversaries of the white club have only been sent off 35 times.
This figure is significant, as we're talking about a difference of 27 red cards (27 expulsiones) that, in many cases, may have influenced the outcome of the matches. Playing with one more man makes it easier for the rival to control possession, have more space, and, consequently, increase its chances of victory. In a league as tight as the Spanish one, where consistency decides titles, these details can make the difference in the final standings.
From Real Madrid's side, this disparity is said to spark debate about competitive equality in the tournament. It's not the same to face key matches against opponents who end up outnumbered as it is to always play on equal terms. Every red card completely changes the dynamics of a match, conditions the opponent's game plan, and can pave the way to victory.
Ultimately, this statistic reflects a significant contrast between the two giants of Spanish soccer. A figure that invites reflection on how refereeing decisions influence the course of LaLiga.