League: LaLiga Sport: Soccer Country: Spain Category: Scores & Results

Valverde confronts referee over Kang-in Lee tackle in Madrid derby

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 23, 2026, 7:00 AM

Last updated Sep 23, 2026

Valverde confronts referee over Kang-in Lee tackle in Madrid derby

Summary

Fede Valverde reacted furiously to referee decisions following a controversial tackle by Kang-in Lee during the Madrid derby, which Real Madrid lost 2-1 to Atletico Madrid on September 21. After the tackle, Valverde approached the referee to demand an explanation for the lack of punishment against Lee. Real Madrid confirmed Valverde suffered severe trauma to his ankle and is expected to miss several weeks due to a grade-three sprain. The incident has reignited discussions about referee accountability in La Liga.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Real Madrid lost 2-1 to Atletico Madrid on September 21.
•Valverde confronted the referee about Lee's tackle post-match.
•Real Madrid reported Valverde has a severe ankle sprain.
•Valverde may be sidelined for several weeks due to injury.
•Refereeing decisions are under scrutiny following the derby.

Latest Updates

7:00 AMYahoo Sports — Watch: Valverde’s reaction to match referee after crunching Kang-in Lee tackle in Madrid derby

What they're saying

"
It has been a couple of days since the controversial Madrid derby, which Los Blancos lost 2-1, and discussion still surrounds some of the refereeing decisions on the night.Jose Mourinho made it very c...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Real Madrid Atletico Madrid LaLiga Soccer