The defeat of the Olympique de Marseille (OM) against Real Madrid (2-1) in the Champions League sparked strong controversy in Spain, where the Madrid press focused on a controversial penalty granted to Blancos. Many Spanish media, such as Marca, underline the particularly harsh nature of this decision, concerning a hand of Facundo Medina. They believe that Medina’s action was natural and did not deserve a penalty, citing examples of former Spanish arbitrators who confirmed this view. Despite this controversy, the Madrid press recognizes the quality of the game proposed by OM and the ambition of its coach, Roberto De Zerbi, highlighting the pressing, intensity and offensive will of the Olympians.

OM offered a brave performance in Madrid, opening the score with Timothy Weah. Despite a domination in possession (56.7%), the Marseillais suffered a penalty transformed by Kylian Mbappé, after the expulsion of Dani Carvajal. OM goaltender Geronimo Rulli made several important stops to keep his team in the game. Even at eleven to ten, OM has created many opportunities, but a hand of Facundo Medina has given a penalty to Real Madrid, transformed by Mbappé for the double. Greenwood, Gouiri and Paixão’s attempts in the last few minutes were not enough to reverse the course of the game.

Although this defeat leaves a bitter taste, the Spanish press welcomes the OM’s performance and highlights the progress made by the team. It highlights the OM’s potential to compete with the great favourites of the competition and the quality of its game under the direction of Roberto De Zerbi. The team has demonstrated a willingness to play an ambitious football, with intense dry cleaning and an offensive approach, despite the negative result. This performance reveals real reasons for hope for the continuation of their course in the Champions League.

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