Elche midfielder Aaron Niguez has apologised for his tackle on Gareth Bale during his side’s 2-0 loss to Real Madrid over the weekend. Niguez’s tackle on Bale on 52 minutes was not punished by referee Ignacio Villanueva, but he drew wide criticism from fans and pundits alike for the nature of his challenge.

Bale was not hurt by the tackle, but Niguez was substituted shortly afterwards. The Spain U21 international also apologised to Bale on Twitter. Check out Niguez’s tackle on Bale, and his apology below

I want to apologize for the unfortunate tackle.@GarethBale11 Pedir disculpas x la entrada desafortunada!@realmadrid pic.twitter.com/TkPMPMimjx

— Aaron Ñiguez (@aaronboria7) February 23, 2015