TONI KROOS was left seething after being booked for a ‘ghost tackle’ in Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey clash with Elche on Thursday night.
Kroos‘ name was placed into the book in the 78th minute of Los Blancos’ 2-1 victory at the Estadio Martinez Valero for what referee Jorge Vazquez thought was a foul on Tete Morente.
But replays showed the retired Germany international did NOT touch the substitute or the ball.
Morente went to ground unaided as he botched his attempt at a Zinedine Zidane turn, but the ref thought Kroos was responsible for the winger’s tumble and proceeded to show him a yellow card.
An irate Kroos quickly pled his innocence, gesticulating to the ref that he made no contact with the Spaniard.
And he reflected on the bizarre booking on social media by sharing a clip of Morente’s stumble that included circus music.
His accompanying caption sarcastically read: “Yellow card. Of course.”
Footy fans were quick to comment, with one tweeting alongside an edited photo of the incident: “Should have been a yellow card for Spiderman instead.”
Another said: “I can’t believe it.
“How did the ref fall for that!! I think the ref anticipated a foul.”
And another said: “Incredible. It isn’t a foul and yellow card.”
One remarked: “You need to stop using those supernatural powers.”
Kroos ended up being substituted before the last-16 tie went to extra time.
Ten-man Madrid looked in danger of being dumped out of the tournament in the 103rd minute when Gonzalo Verdu struck to hand the home side the lead.
But former outcast Isco hauled the thirteen-time European Cup winners level five minutes later.
And ex-Chelsea man Eden Hazard spared Real’s blushes by netting the winner five minutes before the end of extra time.
After the match, manager Carlo Ancelotti hailed his troops’ mental strength, saying: “We didn’t put in an amazing performance.
“We were very much in the game and controlled things.
“When it went to extra time, I asked my players to show cool heads and keep calm because we had another 30 minutes ahead of us.
“We then conceded a goal that we didn’t deserve to, but that’s what brought out all of the character and personality within this squad.”
Real will be back in action on Sunday afternoon, resuming their rivalry with Elche at the Bernabeu.
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