Alvarez’s double touch in the penalty shootout: why VAR disallowed Atletico’s goal

March 13, 2025

The Champions League Round of 16 clash between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid delivered a dramatic penalty shootout that left fans and players alike in a whirlwind of emotions. The pivotal moment came when Atletico’s Julian Alvarez stepped up to take his penalty, only for it to be disallowed after a VAR review. This decision not only sparked controversy but also played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s eventual victory.

Alvarez’s penalty initially appeared successful, as the ball soared into the roof of the net. However, as celebrations erupted, the referee signaled a VAR review. The replays revealed that Alvarez had slipped during his run-up, causing his left foot to make contact with the ball before his right foot struck it. This double touch violated the rules outlined by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), which state that the kicker must not play the ball again until it has touched another player. Consequently, the goal was disallowed, leaving Atletico trailing in the shootout.

The decision was met with mixed reactions. Atletico’s coach, Diego Simeone, expressed frustration, questioning the clarity of the evidence and the timing of the VAR intervention. On the other hand, Real Madrid’s goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois, supported the ruling, stating that he had sensed the double touch and alerted the referee. The incident highlighted the fine margins that can define success or failure in high-stakes football matches.

While the disallowed penalty was a bitter pill for Atletico to swallow, it underscored the importance of precision and composure in such critical moments. The use of VAR, though contentious, aims to ensure fairness and adherence to the rules, even in the most intense situations.