Pirlo ‘understands’ Madrid penalty

Former Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo can ‘understand’ why Real Madrid were awarded a last-minute penalty against his former club.

The decision, which allowed Cristiano Ronaldo to score a late decisive winner from the spot, was highly-controversial as the Bianconeri were eliminated from the Champions League quarter-final.

“It could be a penalty, I understand why it was given,” Pirlo told a media event, as cited by Marca.

“However, I do believe the referee could have avoided awarding the penalty as it was not clear-cut but the disappointment for Juventus will remain.

“I understand Buffon’s reaction, had I been in that situation I would also have gone crazy, but he exaggerated a little with the bit about being a crime against the humanity of sports.

“It should be understood it was Gigi’s last match in the Champions League and he expected to win it.”