Mbappé Acknowledges Referee Mistakes in Real Madrid Derby Loss

Real Madrid suffered a 2-1 defeat to Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano, a result that leaves them six points behind LaLiga leaders Barcelona.

Real Madrid lost 2-1 to Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano following a second-half penalty by Alejandro Grimaldo and a goal from Jonathan David. Antonio Rüdiger scored a late consolation for the visitors, who played with ten men after Dean Huijsen was sent off. The defeat, Madrid's second of the season following a 1-0 loss to Real Betis, leaves José Mourinho’s squad six points behind LaLiga leaders Barcelona after seven matches.

Kylian Mbappé addressed the officiating of Miguel Ángel Ortiz Arias during an interview with Diario AS in Switzerland, stating the referee made "mistakes" but refusing to offer further criticism. The match was marked by officiating controversies in the first half, where Cristian Romero received a yellow card for treading on Jude Bellingham’s knee following a VAR review. Additionally, Kang-in Lee escaped punishment for a high boot on Federico Valverde’s ankle, leading Mourinho to claim the official missed two clear red cards.

Following the result, Mbappé will join the French national team for Nations League fixtures under new head coach Zinedine Zidane, who replaced Didier Deschamps. The forward, who recently broke the record for career World Cup goals, also noted he is awaiting the results of the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony scheduled for next month. Real Madrid faces a Clásico against Barcelona at Camp Nou this October.