Copa Del Rey Final: Real Madrid Deny Boycott Plan Against Barcelona
Real Madrid have denied speculations that they intended to boycott Saturday night’s Copa del Rey final clash against arch-rivals, Barcelona.
OSUN DEFENDER reports that the rumour mill had been agog on Friday after Los Blancos skipped their pre-match press conference and training session, in protest over controversial comments made by members of the refereeing team assigned for the showpiece event in Seville.
However, in a statement, Real Madrid made it clear that at no point was withdrawing from the final ever on the table.
“Our team has never considered giving up playing tomorrow’s final,” the Spanish giants stated, dispelling fears that the encounter, eagerly anticipated by millions across the globe, might be thrown into chaos.
The club described the remarks made by the designated match officials as “unfortunate and inappropriate,” but insisted that the values of football must prevail above any perceived bias or hostility.
“Real Madrid believes that the values of football must prevail, despite the hostility and animosity that has been demonstrated once again today against our club by these referees appointed for the final,” the statement read.
The uproar stems from comments made by referee Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea and Video Assistant Referee Pablo González Fuertes.
The officials were captured in a broadcast aired on Real Madrid TV, criticising the club’s history of complaints against referees.
While the incident fuelled anger within the Madrid camp, the club has pledged its commitment to respecting the supporters, especially those who have travelled from far and wide to witness the historic tie.
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