Barcelona has lodged a formal complaint with UEFA following a controversial no-call for a penalty that could have resulted in defender Marc Pubill receiving a red card during their 2-0 loss in the Champions League quarterfinal against Atlético Madrid on Wednesday.
Pubill, who was already on a yellow card, handled the ball after Atlético goalkeeper Juan Musso appeared to take a goal kick. Barcelona was outraged, calling for a penalty, but referee Istvan Kovacs declined the appeal, and VAR official Christian Dingert did not intervene.
“The club’s legal team has formally submitted a complaint to UEFA regarding the incidents during the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal match against Atlético Madrid,” stated a Barça official announcement.
“The club believes there was a refereeing decision that contravened current regulations, which directly affected the outcome of the match.”
“The complaint centers on a specific incident. In the 54th minute, after play resumed correctly, an opposing player handled the ball within the penalty area, yet no penalty was awarded.”
“Barcelona argues that this decision, combined with the lack of VAR intervention, represents a substantial error. Thus, the club has requested an investigation be launched, access to referees’ communications, and potentially, an official acknowledgment of these mistakes along with appropriate measures to be taken.”
“Barcelona maintains that this is not the first instance in recent UEFA Champions League editions where questionable officiating has significantly disadvantaged the team, creating an inequitable competitive environment.”
This incident occurred while Atlético led 1-0 at Camp Nou, following a goal from Julián Álvarez, after Pau Cubarsí had been sent off for Barcelona.
Alexander Sørloth added a second goal in the 70th minute, securing a 2-0 victory for Diego Simeone’s team before the second leg at the Metropolitano next week.
– VAR review: Cubarsi’s red altered the Barça-Atlético outcome. Was Pubill’s penalty claim valid?
– Álvarez showcases what Barça lacks in Champions League
– Real Madrid kicks off Champions League comeback against Girona, per Arbeloa
Barça coach Hansi Flick expressed his frustration regarding the missed penalty call, which likely would have resulted in a second yellow for Pubill.
“To me, it’s a clear second yellow and a penalty,” Flick remarked during the post-match press conference.
“[VAR] needs to clarify why this wasn’t reviewed. I cannot comprehend how it’s not a red card. It feels unjust.”
“The VAR seemed unusually focused on Atlético today. And it’s a German official, so thanks to Germany.”