Fulham refused penalty shootout in friendly with Málaga, citing contract terms

A peculiar incident occurred during a friendly match between Málaga CF and Fulham FC for the Costa del Sol Trophy in Spain. After the game concluded in a 2-2 draw, the English club controversially refused to take part in the scheduled penalty shootout to determine a winner, ultimately leaving the La Rosaleda stadium.

The situation escalated shortly after Fulham's coach, Álvaro Arbeloa, was sent off. While initial reports suggested Fulham's departure was a form of protest, Málaga CF later clarified the reason behind the English team's abrupt exit. According to the Spanish club, penalty kicks were not part of the agreed-upon terms in the match contract.

Málaga CF further explained that Fulham's decision to leave was also influenced by time constraints. The club needed to depart promptly to catch their flight back to England, implying that engaging in a penalty shootout would have caused them to miss their scheduled travel.

Following Fulham's refusal to participate, Málaga CF proceeded to score a symbolic penalty. This action allowed them to be declared the winners of the Costa del Sol Trophy. The unusual turn of events has sparked discussion about pre-match agreements and the protocols for friendly fixtures.

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The definition by penalties was not contemplated in the contract.