The FC Barcelona suffered another European setback. Things were going well at first, as after half an hour, Hansi Flick’s troops had done the hard part and were leading 2-0, equalizing the tie. But Ademola Lookman scored the crucial goal for the Colchoneros, who then carefully maintained their one-goal lead. Eric Garcia’s expulsion in the 79th minute was the final nail in the Barcelona coffin. Unsurprisingly, Clement Turpin’s refereeing decisions are once again at the center of debates in Catalonia.
While the Barca players felt they were disadvantaged in the first leg, with controversial actions like Pau Cubarsi’s expulsion and Marc Pubill’s handball in the box, they are still bitter tonight. Garcia’s red card, a goal disallowed for Ferran Torres, and a possible penalty not given for Dani Olmo are highlighted by fans and local media, as well as the incident where Fermin Lopez ended up with a bloody face, considered a possible penalty too.
Raphinha criticized Turpin harshly, unlike his coach Flick who refused to comment on the refereeing. Dani Olmo was less aggressive but also expressed disappointment. Despite the controversies, Barcelona players are looking to learn from the experience. Gavi, while more understanding, still acknowledged the challenges faced with the refereeing decisions.
Published on: April 15, 2026 00:11 Last updated on: April 15, 2026 08:17
/2026/04/14/69de9d5450d5f295326698.jpg "2027 World Cup Qualifications: First defeat for the French team, beaten by the Netherlands")
