Mbappé opens up on Ballon d'Or and defensive role at Real Madrid

Real Madrid had strongly appealed for a red card after Pablo Maffeo shoved Kylian Mbappe in full flight right on the edge of the area. However, the CTA ruled that awarding a "direct free-kick and a yellow card" was "correct" on the grounds that "the attacker did not have control of the ball and not all the conditions for a DOGSO were met".

Spain's refereeing body also examined the dismissal of Adam Aznou for two bookable offences in Malaga against Racing, an outcome they similarly backed: "Contested ball between two players, stamp on Pablo Ramon's foot, an action that endangered the opponent. Direct free-kick and yellow card, correct call from the referee."

Of the three flashpoints, perhaps the most contentious involved Mario Martin during Villarreal against Getafe. On this occasion, the CTA supported the on-pitch judgement of Muniz Munoz: "A tussle between two players; Carlos Macia continually holds Mario Martin. In his attempt to break free, he catches him with his arm in the face. Is it violent conduct or a reckless action? The nature of Mario Martin's action is open to interpretation and the referee's decision must stand. The VAR was right not to intervene."