Tottenham Hotspur star slams penalty decision in Newcastle United draw | OneFootball

Romero leads defiant Spurs response at Newcastle

Cristian Romero cut a visceral figure at St James’ Park, dragging Spurs back from the brink twice and later venting fury at a decision he viewed as having tilted the contest. The Argentine described Newcastle being awarded what he called a “disgraceful” penalty during a pulsating 2-2 draw, as Tottenham once again showed their stronger character away from home this season.

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Spurs arrived on Tyneside facing the prospect of a fourth successive defeat, yet they produced a resilient, organised display against a Newcastle side boasting six straight home victories. Romero, freshly returned from suspension, embodied that resolve, scoring both goals and ensuring the visitors escaped with a point.

Newcastle advantage cancelled out

With 20 minutes remaining, Bruno Guimaraes nudged the hosts ahead, only for Romero to thunder in front of his marker and power a header past Aaron Ramsdale. It was a captain’s contribution in everything but the armband, typifying Spurs’ ability to respond under pressure.

Newcastle edged in front again through controversy. A VAR review adjudged Rodrigo Bentancur guilty of wrestling Dan Burn to the ground, leading to a penalty that ignited fierce debate. Rio Ferdinand was quick to condemn the call, posting on X: “Disgraceful decision to reward [sic] #NUFC penalty.

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“Whoever controlling the VAR should be ashamed + the ref then reviews and should be also. Well done Newcastle.”

Romero publicly aligned himself with that verdict, sharing the message on social media after the game.

Penalty row dominates discussion

Tottenham head coach Thomas Frank voiced his own exasperation, particularly regarding the consistency of officiating standards within the Premier League.

“The second one is very disappointing to concede because for me it’s never a penalty,” Frank said.

“Even speaking to someone from Newcastle, who didn’t think it’s a penalty. And we need the consistency. Because that penalty, that would be given two times a game.

“I think the referee call on the pitch nailed it. VAR can only be if it’s clear and obvious.”

Romero delivers decisive moment

Late on, Romero completed a remarkable personal night, converting a spectacular overhead effort to secure the draw. Frank later joked the acrobatic finish “hit his shin”, though the defender chose to bask in the artistry of the moment and praised his international inspiration.

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“Every day with [Lionel] Messi in the national team I watch him,” Romero said.

For Spurs, the result reinforced their durability away from home. For Romero, it was a showcase of leadership and timely goals, with the penalty controversy only sharpening the sense that a resilient performance deserved a fairer outcome.