Reflections on Controversial Red Card Decision in Recent Derby

Arbitration experts on Sunday afternoon sports radio programs quickly reached a consensus that the action involving Brais Méndez and Paredes did not warrant a direct red card. Some commentators even expressed concern over the VAR not intervening to rectify Cuadra Fernández’s decision, which could have been pivotal in the derby, as Athletic Club later equalized against a Real Sociedad team that had been reduced to ten men.

Alfonso Pérez Burrull, an arbitration expert at Radio MARCA, recognized the error made by Cuadra Fernández from the outset. He stated, “I don’t believe this is a red card. It’s a minor altercation between two players, and the referee’s judgement seems a bit excessive. Both players released their arms; the VAR typically intervenes only if something significant has occurred, and in this case, it could have advised the referee to issue a yellow card to each player instead.”

Andujar Oliver from Onda Cero shared a similar view upon reviewing the incident on television. “The Athletic player is feigning injury. What about the VAR? Why aren’t Del Cerro and Pizarro calling to inform him that the expulsion is unjust?”

Pedro Martín from COPE also deemed the punishment given to the Galician player excessive, asserting, “It should have been a yellow card for unsportsmanlike conduct, and nothing beyond that.” He was not alone in his assessment, as many pointed out the provocative nature of Paredes’ actions, labeling it as theatrical.

On the Tablero Deportivo program of Radio Nacional, none of the commentators agreed with the red card issued to Brais, highlighting Paredes’ theatrics. “They need to review this, as it does not merit an expulsion. This is certainly not a red card, especially in a Basque derby. Paredes should feel embarrassed upon seeing the footage, as he was barely touched. This situation only encourages dishonest behavior in the game.”

The least definitive opinion came from Iturralde González on the Carrusel of Cadena Ser, who noted, “It’s not a red card; it’s a yellow, but the VAR cannot intervene,” in response to the host’s disbelief regarding the direct expulsion of the Real Sociedad player.