Roque Santa Cruz has conceded that Malaga can now only look towards securing a Europa League qualification place after defeat at Real Madrid.
The Anchovies fell to a heavy 6-2 defeat on Wednesday evening to leave their slim chances to catching Real Sociedad in the fourth and final Champions League place almost out of reach.
“It’s always tough playing at the Bernabeu,” commented Santa Cruz post-match, before reflecting on the refereeing in the game, which saw Malaga finish with nine men.
“The decisions from the referee were detrimental to the game, as it should have been a great match for the fans.
“There are times when certain circumstances dictate how a match plays out, but there should have been much more tact tonight with regards to the cards awarded.”
Malaga’s fight for Champions League qualification now looks all but over.
“We’d have loved to get to the Champions again next year for our fans, but now we need to fight to qualify for the Europa League, which will also be fantastic for Malaga.”