Eduardo Camavinga has broken his silence on the controversial red card that contributed to Real Madrid’s Champions League quarterfinal elimination by Bayern Munich, accepting responsibility for his actions in a brief but pointed statement.
The French midfielder was shown a second yellow card in the 86th minute of the second leg at the Allianz Arena, leaving Real Madrid with ten men as they held a 3-2 lead on the night and were level 4-4 on aggregate. Bayern Munich went on to score two late goals through Luis Díaz and Michael Olise to advance 6-4 on aggregate.
Speaking to German media outlet Bild, Camavinga offered a concise apology for his dismissal: “Mit knappen Worten entschuldige ich mich für meine Gelb-Rote Karte.” The translation reads: “In a few words, I apologize for my yellow-red card.”
The incident occurred when Camavinga, who had entered the match as a substitute in the 62nd minute, was first cautioned for grabbing Jamal Musiala with two hands as the Bayern attacker led a break. Twelve minutes later, he received a second yellow card for what the referee deemed another foul, resulting in his dismissal.
Real Madrid players and staff reacted strongly to the decision immediately after the match. Coach Álvaro Arbeloa called the red card “obvious” in its impact on the game’s outcome, stating: “You can’t send a player off for a thing like that. I think the referee didn’t even grasp that [Camavinga] already had a yellow card.”
Midfielder Jude Bellingham was more direct in his criticism, calling the decision “a joke” as he passed through the mixed zone. “Two fouls [by Camavinga], two yellow cards,” Bellingham added, suggesting he believed both cautions were unjust.
Defender Antonio Rüdiger echoed the frustration, telling reporters: “It’s better not to talk. … You saw it, right?” while Arda Güler, who had scored twice earlier in the match, was sent off in stoppage time for remonstrating with officials.
The dismissal came at a critical juncture. Camavinga had entered the game with Real Madrid leading 3-2 on the night and the tie level at 4-4. His removal left the Spanish giants vulnerable, and they conceded goals in the 89th and 90+2nd minutes to lose the match 4-3 and exit the competition.
Bayern Munich players took a different view of the incident. A star from the German side, quoted by Bavarian Football Works, stated that Camavinga’s red card “was deserved,” indicating belief that the referee’s decision was correct.
The controversy added to Real Madrid’s history of struggling with defeat in European competition. As noted in match coverage, the club has a record 15 Champions League titles and has previously shown resistance to accepting losses, including skipping the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony when Rodri won over Vinícius Júnior.
Camavinga’s public acceptance of responsibility represents a notable moment of accountability following the heated immediate aftermath. His brief statement contrasts with the strong criticism from teammates and coaches, offering a more measured perspective on the incident that ended Real Madrid’s hopes for a 16th European Cup.
The focus now shifts to Real Madrid’s La Liga campaign and preparations for next season, as the club processes one of its most painful recent exits from Europe’s premier club competition.
What do you think of Camavinga’s apology and the referee’s decision? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
