- Juliánálvarez’s penalty nightmare: How the “No Second Touch” rule costs Madrid.
- Is football the strictest rule? How the “No Second Contact” law changes the history of the Champions League.
- VAR, Punishment and Controversy: Eliminates the decision of Madrid’s Grand Attebit.
In a key Champions League match between Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid, a controversial moment broke out when Juliánálvarez’s fine was banned on 12 March 2025.
The decision originated from the IFAB Law No. 14.1 of the Games, which clearly states:
“The kicker is not allowed to play again until he touches another player.”
Álvarez slipped and made two contacts with the ball inadvertently.
Var confirmed the violation, resulting in the target being banned – a moment that played a key role in Atlético’s elimination from the game.
“No Second Touch” Rules: Origin and Meaning
For more than a century, the “no second contact” rule has been a fundamental part of football. Although penalty kicks were introduced in 1891, there was no limit on the player’s two touches, and then another player was involved.
However, in 1892, the International Football Association Committee (IFAB) formally formulated rules to ensure fairness.
This principle is not limited to free throws, it applies to a variety of restart situations, including:
Tackle (Law 8)
Free kick (Law 13)
Free throws (Law 14.1)
By preventing players from gaining unfair advantages from their rebounds, the rule remains a key part of football regulations.
Historical competition to implement the “no-second touch” rule
The rule has been applied in several high-profile games, leading to game-changing moments:
1. real Madrid (March 12, 2025 – UEFA Champions League)
Juliánálvarez slipped and made two contacts with the ball inadvertently.
VAR reviewed the incident and did not allow the target, which greatly contributed to the elimination of Madrid.
2. Manchester United and Chelsea (August 8, 2019 – UEFA Super Cup)
Chelsea’s Tammy Abraham slipped in a free throw attempt and accidentally touched the ball twice.
The goal was banned and Manchester United won the penalty shootout.
3. Liverpool and AC Milan (May 25, 2005 – UEFA Champions League Final)
Xabi Alonso’s fine was initially saved, but he scored on the rebound.
If Alonso had two contacts in front of another player, it would not be allowed.
4. Fulham vs. Newcastle Manchester United (January 15, 2023 – Premier League)
Aleksandar Mitrović of Fulham slipped during punishment and made two accidental touches before the ball entered the goal.
The target was not allowed and an indirect free kick was awarded to Newcastle.
These cases underscore the importance of maintaining balance and calm during free throws, as even the slightest of mistakes can have significant consequences.
Manager’s reaction to Madrid’s Tritoto’s non-permitted fine
- Diego Simeone’s opinion
Madrid Atlético Madrid’s head coach Diego Simeone is frustrated by the VAR decision not to allow Juliánálvarez to fine.
Also read: Real Madrid
He openly questioned whether the second touch did happen, saying:
“The referee said that when Julián reached the penalty spot, he touched the ball with his standing foot, but the ball did not move.”
He added that further doubts:
“I’ve never seen the fine they called VAR for this. Have you seen him touch the ball twice? Who sees it in the stadium, please raise your hand. I can’t see anyone… next question.”
Despite the controversy, Simeone praised his team’s energy and determination and insisted that despite the setbacks, Atlético was still struggling.
- Carlo Ancelotti’s opinion
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti fully supported the officials’ decision and asserted that Álvarez did have two touches before the ball reached another player.
“They found it. When we realized there was a question, they had confirmed it through VAR.”
He further pointed out:
“I saw it-I think he touched it with his left foot, the second touch.”
This difference in opinion highlights how VAR decisions shape high-risk matches, and teams on the receiving end often feel the biggest.
Conclusion: Why the “no-second touch” rule is important in modern football
Juliánálvarez’s unauthorized fines remind people how strict rules of football change the course of the game.
There is a “no second touch” rule to ensure fairness, but at high pressure moments, it can also lead to controversial results.
As mentioned earlier, even the slightest violations can affect the success of the club, the progress of the tournament and the legacy of the historic nature.
For teams and players, understanding these rules is crucial to avoid expensive mistakes at the biggest stages of football.
