Kolkata, Jul 8 (IANS): A LaLiga spokesperson, who was previously a semi-professional referee, has backed the officials amid growing discontent over Real Madrid benefiting from VAR (video assistant referee) in the Spanish league.

Recently, Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu said 'VAR hasn't been fair and has always favoured one team'.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said after the 1-0 win at Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. "It seems like we only win thanks to the referees, and that's not true. Real Madrid and its players deserve respect."

Responding to a question related to the matter, LaLiga India managing director Jose Antonio Cachaza, during a virtual media conference facilitated by Laliga on Wednesday, said: "Officially, (I've) no take on that, but VAR is a good advancement, indeed.

"I used to be a football referee – a semi-pro – so I just can't even think of referees taking (erroneous) decisions knowingly or intentionally. Yes, there can be mistakes and VAR can also be improved. But there are no foul intentions by the VAR referee or the other match officials."

Real's victory over Athletic came with a controversial 73rd-minute penalty awarded by VAR after defender Marcelo was stepped on by a defender inside the area.

It was seen as one more of the series of VAR decisions that has gone Real's way following the break caused by the coronavirus pandemic.