Eder Sarabia and Ernesto Valverde in handshake flashpoint after Elche lose to Athletic Club | OneFootball

A late VAR penalty gave Athletic Club victory over Elche, then Eder Sarabia and Ernesto Valverde exchanged words at full time.

In the 87th minute, after review, the referee awarded a penalty for a Pedro Bigas challenge on Aymeric Laporte, and Gorka Guruzeta converted to seal the win. According to Superdeporte, the decision sparked Sarabia’s anger and he confronted Valverde during the customary handshake.

Television footage showed a terse moment as the pair came face to face, which some framed as a forceful protest over the decisive call.

Both coaches later played it down. Sarabia said it was simply part of the game and stressed his respect, adding that he admires Valverde as a coach.

Valverde also minimised the flashpoint, noting that managers see incidents through different lenses and that tension is high when so much is at stake.

Beyond the controversy, Athletic recorded a third straight league win, bolstering their position. Elche’s run without a win reached eight, deepening their difficulties.

Source: Superdeporte