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October 25 Clasico Already Marred by Referee Controversy

Eighteen days before the Clasico between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, the likely appointment of Alejandro Hernández Hernández as referee is stirring controversy in Spain, with media outlet Marca highlighting a historical record heavily favoring the Catalans.

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October 25 Clasico Already Marred by Referee Controversy
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The referee assignment for the October 25 Clasico at Camp Nou is already sparking debate in Spain, even before the Technical Refereeing Committee has officially confirmed its choice. According to sports daily Marca, Alejandro Hernández Hernández is expected to officiate the tenth matchday of Liga between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid.

The official is no stranger to both clubs: he has already refereed six Liga Clasicos during his career, with a record that clearly tilts toward the Catalan side. Barcelona won three of those matches, against just one victory for Real Madrid — a success dating back to April 2016. Journalist Roberto Gómez, speaking on Marca Radio, did not hesitate to describe this likely appointment as “bad news” for the Merengues.

The controversy is not new. Last May, Hernández Hernández already refereed the Clasico at Camp Nou, won 2-0 by Barcelona, a result that clinched the Liga title for the Blaugranas. At the time, the Technical Committee’s choice was strongly contested by Madrid supporters, who argue that the referee from the Canary Islands has been a Barça supporter since childhood — an accusation he has never confirmed.

The sporting stakes of this fixture give particular resonance to the controversy. After seven matchdays, Real Madrid trails the Barcelona leader by ten points. A considerable gap that makes the trip to Camp Nou a virtually decisive match for Carlo Ancelotti’s side in the title race.

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