'Real's elimination is entirely the referee's fault'

Real Madrid was furious after losing to Bayern Munich, as several of their stars openly condemned referee Slavko Vinčić for a contentious ruling.

Real Madrid players could not maintain composure after being eliminated from the UEFA Champions League by Bayern Munich, with multiple stars publicly blaming referee Slavko Vinčić for a disputed call.

The match's turning point came in the final minutes, when Eduardo Camavinga received a second yellow card and was sent off. The French midfielder had previously been cautioned for a foul, before committing a minor infraction against Harry Kane during a Bayern counterattack. However, the incident that led to his second yellow was deemed time-wasting, as Camavinga held the ball and moved a few meters after the whistle.

This decision immediately provoked the Real Madrid players. Federico Valverde and Vinícius Júnior were the most vehement on the pitch, continuously pressuring the referee. Meanwhile, the technical area of the Royal club was equally chaotic, with many substitute players voicing their disapproval.

Notably, defender Dani Carvajal shouted directly at the referee: “It's all your fault! You caused this!”. After the match, Jude Bellingham also could not hide his frustration: “It's ridiculous. That situation shouldn't warrant a yellow card. Two incidents, two yellows—it's completely unreasonable.”

On the coaching bench, manager Álvaro Arbeloa also spoke sharply: “The referee ruined the match. No one understands that decision. How can you send off a player for such an incident in a major game? This is unacceptable and utterly unfair.”

Tensions did not subside after the final whistle. Many Real players continued to surround referee Vinčić to protest. Arda Güler, who had scored two goals, also received a yellow card for excessive reaction, before being sent off while leaving the pitch due to failing to control his temper.

The bitter defeat not only meant Real Madrid stopped their Champions League journey, but also left a highly controversial aftermath centered on refereeing—a factor seen as pivotal in deciding the match's outcome.