Real Oviedo HubWhat did the CTA rule about Aaron Escandell's control?
Real Oviedo saw the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) of the RFEF nullify the penalty awarded to FC Barcelona on January 27. The body argued that goalkeeper Aaron Escandell controlled the ball inside the area, so no infraction justified the free kick or the yellow card.
How did the play unfold in the 32nd minute?
| Minute | Action |
|---|---|
| 32 | Raphinha chased a long ball; Escandell caught it with his hands on the area line and, by inertia, left the field with the ball. |
Referee Juan Martínez Munuera interpreted that the keeper had taken the ball outside the area and penalized a foul and a caution for protests. The CTA explained that, under Law 12, if the ball is on the area line it is considered inside; a control inside and an exit by inertia do not generate a disciplinary sanction.
Why does the CTA reject VAR intervention?
The committee reminded that VAR can only act in four specific cases, none of which include an inside‑area control. Therefore, the referee could not review the decision with technology. The CTA emphasized that the official should have let play continue without calling a foul.
What other decisions did the CTA examine in the same match?
The body also reviewed Joan García's penalty request against Barcelona goalkeeper Alberto Reina. According to the CTA, the Barcelona keeper launched and controlled the ball before the Oviedo forward could touch it, so no infraction existed. Additionally, the CTA commented on the controversial penalty in favor of Valencia in the 92nd minute against RCD Espanyol, stating that the Espanyol defender committed a clear foul by stepping on the Valencia forward inside the area.
What does this review mean for Real Oviedo?
The CTA's statement strengthens Real Oviedo's stance on refereeing decisions that could affect results. By showing that Escandell's control was legal, the club gains an argument for future appeals and to protect its players from unjust sanctions. The committee's clarity also helps coaches prepare their squads for borderline situations.
What comes next after the review?
The CTA closed its intervention indicating the play will not undergo further review and that VAR has no jurisdiction in this case. Real Oviedo can focus on upcoming league fixtures, confident that its goalkeeper has official technical backing.
