Cristian Romero calls Newcastle penalty “disgraceful” after dramatic Spurs draw

Cristian Romero delivered an extraordinary individual performance at St James’ Park — scoring twice, defending relentlessly and voicing fury at a penalty call he branded “disgraceful” — as Tottenham battled to a dramatic 2–2 draw against in-form Newcastle United. The Argentine centre-back, returning from suspension, led by example during a chaotic and contentious evening on Tyneside.

Tottenham entered the match having been far more convincing on the road than at home this season, and their resilience was again on display. For Newcastle, who had won six straight home games, this was expected to be another opportunity to assert dominance. Instead, it became the Romero show.

Romero’s impact began in both penalty areas. With Spurs trailing late on, the Argentine rose above his marker to power home a brilliant header past Aaron Ramsdale, cancelling out Bruno Guimarães’ opener and dragging Tottenham back into the contest.

But controversy soon took over. Newcastle were awarded a penalty after VAR concluded that Rodrigo Bentancur had wrestled Dan Burn to the ground during a corner — a decision that sparked immediate backlash across football social media.

Rio Ferdinand posted on X: “Disgraceful decision to reward #NUFC penalty. Whoever controlling the VAR should be ashamed.”

Romero emphatically agreed, retweeting Ferdinand’s message. After the match, he made no attempt to hide his frustration, while Thomas Frank echoed the same sentiment.

Spurs manager Thomas Frank offered a measured but pointed assessment of the decision.

“The second one is very disappointing to concede because for me it’s never a penalty,” he said. “Even speaking to someone from Newcastle, who didn’t think it’s a penalty. And we need consistency. That penalty would be given two times a game if that’s the standard.”

Frank insisted the on-field referee had made the correct initial call, and that VAR should intervene only when something is “clear and obvious.”

Despite his frustration, Frank could still find room for humour, joking that Romero’s spectacular stoppage-time bicycle kick — the goal that sealed the point — “hit his shin.” Romero, unsurprisingly, preferred to admire the technique.

Asked about his acrobatic winner, Romero quickly credited the greatest influence in his football life: Lionel Messi.

“Every day with Messi in the national team I watch him,” Romero said. “You learn so much — how he finishes, how he moves, everything.”

Romero has long been known for his aggression and elite defensive instincts, but his two-goal display highlighted how much more complete his game has become. With Tottenham desperately needing leadership and quality in a difficult run of form, his performance could not have come at a better time.

Tottenham avoided what would have been a fourth straight defeat and maintained their strong away form. Frank’s side remain inconsistent, but the fight they showed — in one of the toughest stadiums in the league — will give them something to build on.

Newcastle, meanwhile, may feel frustrated at allowing the lead to slip twice, but remain in strong shape at home.

From my experience analysing Tottenham’s defensive structure this season, Romero’s presence elevates the entire back line. His aggression can occasionally cross the line, but his leadership is irreplaceable — and Spurs look noticeably more organised, confident and combative when he is available.

Although some may argue he is too emotional, it’s worth questioning whether Tottenham need exactly that edge in matches like these. Romero embodies the defiance Spurs have lacked at times this season, especially in difficult away fixtures.

His reaction to the penalty — raw, honest, public — may cause debate, but it also reflects his commitment. Tottenham need players who care deeply and lead vocally; Romero is already doing both.

Tottenham return home looking to finally stabilise their season, with Romero’s leadership and form becoming central to any potential turnaround.

👉 Was the Newcastle penalty truly “disgraceful,” or was VAR technically correct? What’s your verdict?