In a heated clash between Tigres and Monterrey during Matchday 15 of the Clausura 2025 Liga MX season, goalkeeper Nahuel Guzmán has found himself at the center of a storm of criticism following a controversial and, some say, unsportsmanlike act aimed at Sergio Ramos. The match, which took place in the early hours of April 13 (Vietnam time), was an intense derby battle that saw Tigres mount an impressive comeback to secure a 2-1 victory. But instead of the goals or the tactical brilliance on display, the football world has been gripped by a bizarre penalty incident that has since gone viral.

The controversy unfolded when Sergio Ramos, now playing for Monterrey, stepped up to take a penalty in the first half. As Ramos prepared to strike, Nahuel Guzmán inexplicably turned his back on the Spanish legend — a move that stunned not just the fans but also the commentators and opposing players. According to reports from El Universal, the act appeared to be a deliberate attempt to distract Ramos, possibly hoping to shake his focus and provoke a miss.

Guzmán, who has a long-standing reputation in Mexican football for his unorthodox antics, is no stranger to theatrics on the field. In 2023, he gained notoriety for bringing a lucky charm onto the pitch and performing magic tricks during a CONCACAF Champions Cup match. Though his antics often generate headlines and amusement, this latest stunt has crossed a line for many observers.

Despite the psychological ploy, Ramos remained unfazed. With the calm of a seasoned veteran, he confidently converted the penalty, putting Monterrey ahead with a powerful and precise strike. It was a moment that reminded fans of Ramos’ years at the top level of European football — a player who has taken penalties in World Cups, Champions League finals, and El Clásicos. Turning your back on such a player might have seemed clever in theory, but in execution, it only served to highlight Guzmán’s desperation and misjudgment.

Ramos’ response after the match was equally composed but tinged with quiet authority. In a brief statement to the press, he reportedly said, “Do you even know the kinds of penalties I’ve taken in my career?” The remark, subtle yet cutting, resonated deeply with Real Madrid supporters and football purists alike. It wasn’t just a reminder of his pedigree — it was a statement of class, a dignified response to a moment of disrespect.

The backlash against Guzmán was swift. Former FIFA referee Felipe Ramos Rizo, speaking to TNT Sports, criticized the goalkeeper’s behavior, calling it a clear violation of the laws of the game. Rizo explained that according to FIFA rules, goalkeepers are required to face the penalty taker, stand on the goal line, and maintain composure until the ball is struck. Any attempt to distract the shooter with non-footballing gestures — such as turning away — is not only unsporting but also punishable by a yellow card.

“The law is very clear,” Rizo stated. “A goalkeeper must not act in a way that disrespects the game or the opponent. What Guzmán did was not just unsportsmanlike — it was illegal. Such actions must be sanctioned to preserve the professionalism of the league.”

While Tigres celebrated the comeback win — scoring two unanswered goals after Ramos’ opener — the conversation in post-match analysis was dominated by Guzmán’s antics. The victory was somewhat overshadowed by what many saw as a cheap stunt that failed to achieve its intended purpose.

For Ramos, the penalty was more than just a goal. It was a statement. At 38, playing in a new league, the Spanish icon showed he still carries the ice-cold nerve that made him one of the greatest defenders of his generation. The moment instantly became one of the most talked-about scenes of the Liga MX season — not for the showmanship of Guzmán, but for the unshakeable presence of a legend who let his boots do the talking.

In an age where football often teeters between showbiz and sport, Ramos reminded everyone that respect, class, and execution still speak the loudest. Guzmán, on the other hand, may have hoped for a viral moment — and he got one — but not the kind he’ll want to remember.