Atletico Madrid fan groups are preparing to sue UEFA over Julian Alvarez's disallowed penalty in their Champions League loss to Real Madrid.

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Alvarez penalty ruled out for double touchUEFA backs VAR decision in Real Madrid UCL tieFour Atletico fan groups to sue UEFAFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

Alvarez's spot-kick was ruled out in Atletico's penalty shootout loss to Madrid in the last 16 of the Champions League last month as VAR deemed the Argentine had touched the ball twice. Now, fan groups Atletico's International Union of Fan Clubs, Senado Atletico, Los 50, and Senales de Humo have said they will jointly commence legal proceedings against UEFA – which backed VAR's decision that it was a double touch by the ex-Manchester City star.

AdvertisementGettyWHAT THE ATLETICO FAN GROUPS SAID

In a statement released on Friday, via ESPN, the fan groups said: "It was agreed, as an initial measure, to create a working group made up of renowned, prestigious lawyers, who will be responsible for designing the appropriate legal strategy to file the relevant complaint as soon as possible. We want to publicly thank fan groups, club members and fans for the support shown for the idea of defending the dignity and values which our club's history represents."

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The decision proved costly as Atletico went on to lose the penalty shootout and Real progressed to the Champions League quarter-finals at their expense. In the fallout from this game, UEFA said it will enter into talks with FIFA and IFAB (International Football Association Board) to determine if this rule should be reviewed. If changes are made, Atletico may feel vindicated but also somewhat aggrieved.

Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?

While the fan groups stir into action, third-placed Atletico take on relegation favourites Real Valladolid in La Liga on Sunday night.