Elche coach Eder Sarabia was furious after Real Madrid’s equaliser, insisting that Vinícius Jr. clearly fouled his goalkeeper Iñaki Peña, and accusing referees and VAR of influencing the result.
According to a report from Goal.com, Elche coach Eder Sarabia expressed strong frustration following his team’s 2–2 draw with Real Madrid, slamming what he described as a “clear foul” by Vinícius Jr. on goalkeeper Iñaki Peña, moments before the equalising goal.
Sarabia said, “Vinícius clearly played rough against Peña … he was struck in the face, leaving a mark … The refereeing significantly impacted the result, and I am very angry about it.”
He added that having to debate such incidents was “annoying,” lamenting that external factors “tipped the scales” in a match where Elche twice led.
Sarabia maintained that the decision not to call a foul was not just a minor error but one with “key” consequences.
Despite his anger, Sarabia also praised his players’ fight. He argued that they showed character and maintained control for long spells, but he believes the officiating let them down.
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, meanwhile, defended his decision to bring on Vinícius, saying:
“We spoke about it … He understands the role and the impact he could have.”
The controversy has added fuel to a fiery post-match debate, with Elche feeling aggrieved by what they see as a costly refereeing error.