Madrid (AFP)

The controversy over video arbitration (VAR) intensifies in Spain after a series of short victories for Real Madrid, marked in particular by three disputed penalties, which feeds the critics of his dolphin, Barcelona, ​​relegated to 4 points to four days of the end.

Video refereeing played a major role in the Madrid’s recent victories, starting with the last success achieved against Athletic Bilbao (1-0) on a penalty converted by Sergio Ramos, after Dani Garcia’s foul on Marcelo .

A similar collision between the Madrid captain and Raul Garcia took place a few minutes later in the area of ​​Real without the referee awarding a penalty to the Basques. A decision that has contributed to fueling controversy over video refereeing, which has been particularly keen since Real Madrid snatched Barcelona's top spot after its win over Real Sociedad on June 21.

- "Not very fair" -

"We are not going to win the La Liga thanks to the referees, nor lose it. Anyone who has not achieved his goals should be self-critical. The credit for 1st place in Real Madrid does not go to the referees," said Captain Sergio Ramos after Sunday's game.

"I feel bad because La Liga is the best championship in the world but VAR is not up to par," lamented on Sunday Barça president, Josep Maria Bartomeu, at Movistar + channel after winning 4- 1 of the Blaugranas in Villarreal.

"It has not been very fair since the recovery and affects certain results. It seems that it always favors the same," added the Catalan leader.

- "VAR Leaders" -

Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said he was "tired" of the controversy, saying that "Real did not win thanks to the referees".

Since the La Liga's recovery, Real Madrid have won four games by only one goal difference, including three on penalties.

What stir up the controversy. In the aftermath of the 31st day and the Merengue's victory on the lawn of Real Sociedad (2-1), the Catalan newspaper Sport titled "Leaders du VAR".

In question, a penalty awarded to the Brazilian Vinicius following a slight collision in the area, then the equalizing goal of Adnan Januzaj refused for an offside position not obvious.

Only four days before the end of the championship, Real Madrid has a comfortable margin with 4 lengths ahead and a particular favorable difference on Barça, but its last slow outings do not protect it from a return of Catalans in the event of a double misstep.

© 2020 AFP