The context of the mockery was a performance that was far from vintage from the champions. Rayo had frustrated their illustrious neighbours for the vast majority of the contest, and it appeared that Arbeloa, who only replaced the sacked Xabi Alonso last month, was destined to drop two crucial points in La Liga.
Madrid had struggled to break down the resilient Rayo backline, and as the game entered its dying embers, the pressure was mounting on the rookie head coach. A draw would have been a significant boost for Barcelona, keeping them comfortably clear at the top of the table.
However, the intervention of Díaz changed the complexion of the weekend. The Moroccan international’s burst into the box and subsequent tumble invited the referee to make a decision, which VAR did not overturn. Mbappe’s cool finish saved Madrid’s blushes, but it also robbed Barcelona of a weekend where they could have extended their lead, arguably fuelling Laporta’s frustration.
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