Getafe’s Abdel Abqar sent off for pinching Sorloth, VAR intervenes | OneFootball

Abdel Abqar was sent off after a VAR review for pinching Alexander Sorloth’s groin during Atlético Madrid’s meeting with Getafe, an incident that has reignited debate over on-pitch conduct.

It happened in minute 54 near the halfway line, off the ball. The Norwegian striker immediately grabbed the defender’s arm and threw him to the turf. Following a VAR alert and an on-field monitor check, the referee showed the Getafe centre-back a straight red for unsporting behaviour.

According to Superdeporte, opinion split swiftly, with some analysts calling the dismissal clear, while others felt Sorloth’s reaction might have merited tougher sanction.

The flashpoint also recalled last season’s Liga F derby between Espanyol and Barcelona at the Ciudad Deportiva de Dani Jarque, where Mapi León was involved in a near-identical incident with Daniela Caracas. Espanyol and Caracas condemned the act, while Barcelona and the Spain international denied it.

Images spread rapidly on social media and Mapi León received a torrent of criticism, including allegations of sexual assault. Whether Abqar’s gesture now triggers a comparable storm, or fades with less noise in the men’s game, remains to be seen.

Source: Superdeporte