Almeida Slams UEFA After Atleti Exit

Madrid mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida has strongly criticized UEFA following Atlético de Madrid's Champions League elimination in the semifinals against Arsenal. The mayor alleged that the refereeing decisions, particularly the choice of German referee Daniel Seibert, showed a "predetermined intent" to harm the red-and-white side.

Almeida highlighted controversial decisions including a penalty not awarded to Giuliano Simeone and questioned the amount of stoppage time added. "We were drawn against UEFA, not Arsenal," the mayor stated, noting Spain and Germany's competition for the fifth Champions League spot made the referee selection incomprehensible. michezonews.co.za