**La Liga Referee Controversies: 18 Highly Controversial Decisions**

In the world of football, referees play a crucial role in ensuring fair play and maintaining order on the pitch. However, like any human being, they can make mistakes or show bias, leading to controversies that often dominate headlines. In La Liga, one of the most popular leagues in Europe, these controversies are particularly common due to the high level of competition and the intense rivalry between teams.

Here are 18 highly controversial decisions made by La Liga referees over the years:

1. **Goal Line Technology (GLOM)**:

- The introduction of Goal Line Technology has been met with mixed reactions from fans and players alike.

- A famous example is the controversial decision in the 2017 Champions League final when Real Madrid scored a goal despite the ball not crossing the line.

- Such incidents have led to debates about the accuracy and reliability of GLOM technology.

2. **Offside Calls**:

- Offside calls have long been subject to controversy, especially in close matches where players are very close to the opponent's penalty area.

- The 2019 La Liga Final saw several offside calls that were heavily debated, including those involving Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

- These calls have highlighted the difficulty in determining the exact moment when a player goes offside.

3. **Handball Calls**:

- Handball calls are another contentious area in football.

- The infamous "handball incident" in the 2014 World Cup final between Brazil and Germany was widely criticized for its timing and interpretation.

- Such decisions can lead to significant penalties and can impact the outcome of games.

4. **Yellow Card Dismissals**:

- Yellow cards are used as a form of cautionary measure in football, but their use has also been subject to controversy.

- A well-known example is the yellow card given to Neymar Jr. during the 2015 Copa América final, which some felt was unnecessary and unfair.

- The interpretation of yellow cards can vary, leading to disputes between players, coaches, and fans.

5. **Penalty Shootouts**:

- Penalty shootouts are a critical part of many football competitions, but they can be highly contentious.

- The 2016 European Championship final saw a controversial penalty shootout where Croatia won against France.

- Such shootouts can become a source of frustration and debate among fans and participants.

6. **Foul Call Interpretations**:

- Foul call interpretations can vary significantly depending on the referee's judgment.

- A classic example is the 2017 UEFA Champions League final where Manchester City won against Liverpool after a controversial foul call.

- Such decisions can influence the flow of the game and affect the overall result.

7. **Referee Bias**:

- While rare, there have been instances of referees showing bias towards certain teams or players.

- The 2016 UEFA Europa League final saw Barcelona lose to Juventus after a controversial refereeing decision.

- Such incidents highlight the importance of having independent referees who can make objective judgments.

8. **Delayed Goals**:

- Delayed goals, where the referee delays announcing a goal to allow for further discussion or review, have also been a source of controversy.

- The 2014 FIFA Confederations Cup final saw delayed goals that led to controversy and accusations of misconduct.

- Such decisions can impact the fairness of the match and lead to further scrutiny.

9. **Match Officials' Misconduct**:

- Match officials, including referees, assistants, and linesmen, can commit misconduct that leads to controversies.

- The 2015 UEFA Champions League final saw a controversial decision where the referee was caught making contact with a player.

- Such incidents can have serious consequences for both the referee and the team involved.

10. **Disqualification of Referees**:

- In extreme cases, referees may be disqualified from officiating major tournaments.

- The 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup final saw the disqualification of one referee after he was found guilty of misconduct.

- Such decisions can have significant implications for the league and the sport at large.

These controversial decisions have contributed to the rich history of La Liga and have shaped the way football is played and watched around the world. They serve as reminders of the challenges faced by referees and the need for fair play and professionalism in sports.