Barcelona showcased a marvellous display on the weekend, securing a 4-2 victory over Real Betis, with Ferran Torres scoring a hat-trick.
It was a dominant performance from the Catalans, one fans hadn’t seen in quite a long time. Thanks to the win, Barça could have even narrowed the gap between them and Real Madrid.
Unfortunately, a refereeing fiasco in the Real Madrid game against Almeria saw Los Blancos secure three points.
Indeed, a major controversy ensued in that game, particularly in relation to Vinicius Junior’s goal in the second half. The Brazilian was awarded a goal even though it appeared he had handled the ball.
Joan Laporta on the refereeing fiasco
Barcelona president Joan Laporta was not shy in speaking out against this refereeing fiasco in the Real Madrid game.
“What happened yesterday at the Bernabéu was shameful!” Laporta said (h/t Mundo Deportivo). “On a day when we could have reduced the point difference, the VAR has prevented it. They should give explanations.”
The VAR indeed was at the centre of the controversy, as it awarded Vinicius the goal despite reviewing the incident properly.
It must be noted that referees across Spain have been under pressure from Real Madrid, who have been posting videos of their poor decisions throughout the season.
“What happened yesterday responds to the ‘referee pressure’ that has been carried out throughout the season through channels,” Laporta added.
Gerard Romero, in fact, had published a leaked audio conversation of the referee who officiated the Real Madrid game. In the leaked audio, the referee was heard refusing to send off Vinicius after he punched an Almeria player.
This has raised further suspicion about the integrity of the referees in La Liga, although the Referee’s Committee has decided to launch an investigation against Romero for leaking the audio.
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