Real Madrid’s 1-0 victory over Villarreal marred by Vinicius Junior’s red card: Was it the right call?

Vinicius Junior was sent off in Real Madrid's 1-0 victory over Villarreal. (Image credits—CommonsWikipedia, License Details)

Vinicius Junior’s latest controversy has sparked debate in the headlines after Real Madrid's 1-0 victory against Villarreal, but the decision to send off the Real Madrid forward became the hot topic of discussion.

This incident occurred late in the second half of the game moments after he appeared to have doubled Madrid's lead before VAR intervened and ruled it out.

Moments later, the VAR review revealed that he had pulled Villarreal defender Nathan Saliba’s hair during the build-up.

Referee Isidro Díaz de Mera Escuderos disallowed the goal and showed the Brazilian a straight red card.

Many believe that the decision was an overreaction, but when the replays rolled, it seemed that it was quite fair.

As per the rules, hair-pulling is not a normal part of football’s physical contest.

It is an act directed at an opponent rather than an attempt to win the ball, and it can fall under the category of violent conduct.

Even though it happened in an attacking move from the Brazilian, it doesn't make this offense any less serious.

While many argue that the punishment was harsh considering Vinicius did not intend to cause any harm to Nathan Saliba.

However, referee decisions do not always depend on a player's intentions.

Officials have to make a decision after assessing the action itself, and clearly pulling someone's hair away from a position to contest for the ball is difficult to defend.

Madrid ultimately held on to win 1-0 despite playing with ten men for the closing stages and secured three important points ahead of the massive El Clasico later this month.

Vinícius later apologized to his teammates and supporters, although the disciplinary actions on him remain a separate matter, while Jose Mourinho did not attend the press conference after the game, as he wasn't content with the quality of refereeing in the game.

The Brazilian may also face a three-game ban which would mean that he would miss the game against Barcelona on October 26.