Gasperini, De Roon and Gollini meet Real Madrid again amid the “DOGSO zone” debate

“Vendetta” over the “DOGSO zone” frames the reunion in Rome between Real Madrid and former Atalanta figures Gasperini, De Roon and Gollini. The debate dates back to Remo Freuler’s early dismissal in the 17th minute. The acronym “Denying an Obvious Goal-Scoring Opportunity” quickly gained currency as a justification for the decision. Although Freuler was not the last defender, the referee showed him a straight red, judging that he had stopped a clear chance in a potentially dangerous area known as the “DOGSO zone.”

The International Board (IFAB) describes the area as one that could be mapped by joining the corners of the goal area to those of the penalty area, then extending an imaginary line almost to the halfway line. That does not mean every foul in the zone results in a sending-off. An illustration sets Freuler’s challenge on Ferland Mendy alongside the IFAB’s depiction of the zone.

The incident stirred strong feelings at Atalanta. Freuler apologised to the team and the club’s supporters; Marten de Roon replied: “Brother, you don’t have to apologise to us.” Gasperini had promised: “We will go to Madrid to win.” Atalanta later lost 3-1 at the Bernabéu and exited the Champions League. In 2024, the club had also lost 2-0 to Real Madrid in the UEFA Super Cup final, after winning the Europa League.

The protagonists’ paths cross again. Gasperini reunited with Pierluigi Gollini at the Olímpicio and brought De Roon with him; Mile Svilar’s injury gives Gollini the chance to start in goal against Real Madrid. De Roon said: “Gasperini made me stronger. You follow him blindly, without thinking.”