CTA verdict on Jon Martín and Ochieng backs referees and VAR | OneFootball

The Spanish federation’s 'Tiempo de Revisión' programme, which uses AI to review contentious incidents, has backed the referees and VAR over the Jon Martín red card at Elche and the Ochieng handball against Atlético Madrid.

After Sunday’s defeat to Atlético, Pellegrino Matarazzo complained that Real had been harmed by decisions in three straight rounds. He cited a possible Núñez foul on Guedes against Celta, Martín’s dismissal at Elche and the penalty for Ochieng’s handball.

In Elche, VAR cancelled Sucic’s strike for 0-3, then Jon Martín was sent off for handling in the build-up. The incident was assessed as a clear missed offence, warranting a direct free-kick and red card, and VAR intervention was deemed correct.

Against Atlético, the ball brushed Ochieng’s thigh then struck his arm, which was held away from his body. The penalty was judged correct because the contact on the thigh was only a deflection, not deliberate play, even though he was attempting to play the ball.

Taken together, the rulings undercut Matarazzo’s claim, even if the handball was only one part of Martínez Munuera’s display. Debate among supporters and analysts remains, but both key calls were upheld.

Source: Diario Vasco

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”