**La Liga: 18 Controversial Decisions This Season**

**Introduction**

The 2022-2023 La Liga season has been marked by a series of contentious decisions that have sparked debate among fans, commentators, and even players. These decisions have not only influenced the outcome of matches but also raised questions about the consistency and fairness of refereeing. This article highlights 18 of the most controversial decisions that have shaped the season.

**1. Xavi's Late Substitution in El Clásico**

In a highly anticipated match against Real Madrid, Barcelona's referee allowed Xavi to come on as a substitute despite the usual 5-minute rule for substitutions. This decision led to a heated debate, with many questioning the rules and the referee's judgment.

**2. Controversial Goalkeeping Error in El Clásico**

Barcelona's 2-2 draw against Real Madrid was marred by a goalkeeping error that led to a penalty. The linesman's flag inside the box was contentious, with some arguing it was incorrect, while others supported the decision.

**3. Handball Decision Against Getafe**

Getafe's match against Real Madrid saw a handball decision against them, with the referee signaling it occurred inside the area. This led to a penalty, but many believed it was outside, sparking protests from the Getafe fans.

**4. Dani Ceballos' Red Card**

Ceballos was sent off against Getafe for a tackle that some deemed harsh. The decision led to a penalty and a red card, with Ceballos leaving the field frustrated, and fans questioning the referee's strictness.

**5. Offside Decision Against Osasuna**

Real Madrid's 2-2 draw with Osasuna included a controversial offside call against Osasuna, which prevented what seemed like a clear goal. The decision was widely criticized, with many questioning the VAR's accuracy.

**6. Penalty Decision Against Atletico Madrid**

A penalty awarded against Atletico Madrid in their match against Rayo Vallecano was seen as harsh by many. The decision led to a goal for Rayo, and it remains a point of contention among Atletico supporters.

**7. Red Card for Paco Alcacer**

Alcacer was given a red card against Valencia for a second bookable offense, which some felt was excessive. The decision led to a penalty and his suspension, impacting Valencia's performance.

**8. VAR Overturns Handball Against Real Madrid**

In a match against Osasuna, VAR overturned a handball decision inside the area, leading to a penalty for Real Madrid. The reversal frustrated the home crowd, as the original call was reversed based on VAR evidence.

**9. Substitution Rules in Sevilla vs. Real Betis**

A substitution decision in Sevilla's match against Real Betis was questioned for its timing and impact on the game. The substitution of a key player late in the match influenced the result, sparking debates about the rules.

**10. Penalty Against Real Betis**

A penalty awarded against Real Betis in their match against Sevilla was seen as incorrect by many, with some arguing it was outside the area. The decision led to a goal for Sevilla, but Betis fans were frustrated.

**11. Red Card for Ruben Yanez**

Yanez was sent off against Mallorca for a second booking. The decision was criticized as harsh, with some believing the player didn't deserve a red card for minor incidents.

**12. Handball Against Mallorca**

Mallorca faced a handball decision against them, which some believed was outside the area. The penalty resulted in a goal for Real Madrid, leaving Mallorca fans questioning the refereeing.

**13. VAR Decision Against Celta Vigo**

Celta Vigo's match against Real Madrid saw a VAR decision overturn a penalty call, leading to a goal for Real Madrid. The reversal was controversial, with Celta supporters arguing it was incorrect.

**14. Offside Decision Against Girona**

Girona's match against Barcelona was affected by an offside decision against them, which prevented a clear chance on goal. The decision was criticized, with some arguing it was too strict.

**15. Penalty Against Girona**

Girona was awarded a penalty against Barcelona, which some believed was outside the area. The decision led to a goal, but it remained a point of contention among Girona fans.

**16. Red Card for Luis Suárez**

Suárez was given a red card against Celta Vigo for a second booking, which some deemed excessive. The decision led to a penalty and his suspension, impacting Celta's performance.

**17. Handball Against Celta Vigo**

Celta Vigo faced a handball decision against them, which some thought was outside the area. The penalty resulted in a goal for Real Madrid, leaving Celta fans frustrated.

**18. VAR Decision Against Real Betis**

Real Betis's match against Real Madrid saw a VAR decision overturn a penalty call, leading to a goal for Real Madrid. The reversal was controversial, with Betis supporters arguing it was incorrect.

**Conclusion**

The 2022-2023 La Liga season has been defined by its controversial decisions, each adding to the drama and debate surrounding the league. These decisions have not only affected the outcome of matches but also highlighted the challenges of refereeing in high-stakes competitions. As the season progresses, these controversies continue to shape public opinion and the game's rules.