Hayes felt that her team had been “robbed” of a 3-1 victory due to two controversial referee decisions.
In the match, Real Madrid equalized with a 79th-minute penalty awarded by referee Frida Klarlund for a challenge by Jessie Fleming on Athenea del Castillo. Hayes was adamant that the foul occurred outside the penalty area.
Furthermore, Hayes was unhappy about Niamh Charles’ disallowed goal in stoppage time, which appeared to be ruled offside. She argued that Charles was onside, and Sam Kerr had not interfered with the goalkeeper.
Hayes expressed her shock and disbelief that the match officials did not make the correct calls, especially in a contest without the use of VAR (Video Assistant Referee). Chelsea had to settle for a 2-2 draw despite what she believed should have been a 3-1 win.
The controversy surrounding the referee decisions added drama to the Champions League match and left Chelsea fans and players frustrated with the outcome.