Clear red card’ – Endrick kicks opponent in the groin during Real Madrid’s victory over Alaves but escapes with a caution

Speaking after the match, the Alaves boss said: “It’s a red card. We should have played the last 10 minutes against 10 men. It’s a clear red, nobody can say it wasn’t. If the referee didn’t see it, that’s what the VAR is for. Maybe they got more yellows than they should have, but for for Endrick, it’s a red.”

• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Unsurprisingly, Los Blancos boss Carlo Ancelotti did not admit that his own player should have been sent off. Endrick staying on the pitch helped Madrid get over the line and keep in touch with league leaders Barcelona, who have maintained their perfect start so far.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR REAL MADRID?

  Real Madrid have a huge match against rivals Atletico Madrid on Sunday. A win would put some distance between the two teams and give Los Blancos another injection of confidence in their bid to retain the La Liga crown come May.