Mbappé refuses to criticize Madrid derby ref

Match Overview

Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappé has refused to criticize referee Mateo Busquets Ferrer following a chaotic 1-1 draw against Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano. Mbappé, who missed the derby due to a thigh injury, praised the official’s handling of a highly-charged match that was suspended for 15 minutes due to crowd trouble.

The match saw Éder Militão break the deadlock for Real Madrid in the 64th minute before Atlético’s Ángel Correa secured a dramatic 95th-minute equalizer. The referee temporarily halted play in the second half after Atlético fans threw objects at Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, a decision Mbappé fully supported post-match.

Key Stats & Facts

Final Score: Atlético Madrid 1-1 Real Madrid
Possession: Atlético Madrid 50% - 50% Real Madrid
Goalscorers: Éder Militão (64’) for Real Madrid; Ángel Correa (90+5’) for Atlético Madrid
Shots (On Target): Atlético Madrid 12 (4) - 10 (4) Real Madrid
Discipline: 1 Red Card (Marcos Llorente, 90+9’), 3 Yellow Cards (Gallagher, Le Normand; Modrić)
Match Interruption: A 15-minute suspension was enforced in the 68th minute under stadium safety protocols.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

Despite his absence on the pitch, Kylian Mbappé remained under the media spotlight, publicly backing the referee’s authority and urging a focus on player safety. On the pitch, Atlético’s Ángel Correa earned player of the match honors by coming off the bench to score a crucial stoppage-time equalizer.

The draw leaves Real Madrid in second place in La Liga with 18 points, trailing leaders Barcelona by three points after eight rounds. Atlético Madrid sits closely behind in third place with 16 points, with both capital clubs maintaining their unbeaten starts to the league season.

Mbappé refuses to criticize Madrid derby ref