Ademola Lookman’s remarkable disciplinary record has come into focus following a controversial refereeing decision during Atlético Madrid’s La Liga clash with Deportivo Alavés at the Mendizorroza Stadium on Saturday, allnigeriasoccer.com reports.
Cristian Romero scored what proved to be the game-winning goal in the 87th minute, after Lucas Boyé cancelled out Alejandro Grimaldo's 33rd minute opener.
Against Alaves, the former African Footballer of the Year was booked in the 45th minute for a challenge on Ángel Pérez.
Referee Alejandro Quintero González deemed the incident reckless rather than a dangerous lunge, issuing a yellow card instead of sending him off.
The decision attracted attention because another ankle challenge in the same match, involving Ángel Pérez and Julián Álvarez resulted in a red card following a VAR review.
Reacting to the expulsion, Alavés manager Quique Sánchez Flores questioned the apparent difference in how the incidents were assessed.
In quotes relayed by Marca, he stated: "I didn’t see it. It’s one of those plays the player doesn’t intend to make.
"I’ve been told there was a similar incident involving Lookman in the first half where the VAR’s criteria were different. If that’s the case, it hurts."
Lookman has played 413 games in his professional career, comprising 368 for his European clubs and 45 for the Nigeria national team, without receiving a red card.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
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