UEFA have dismissed Barcelona’s complaint regarding the refereeing decisions made during their Champions League quarter-final defeat to Atlético Madrid.
The complaint, which centred around a penalty claim, has been ruled “inadmissible” by European football’s governing body.
The Source of Barcelona’s Grievance
Barcelona’s complaint stemmed from an incident in their 2-0 defeat to Atlético Madrid. They argued that a penalty should have been awarded when Marc Pubill handled the ball. The alleged handball occurred after goalkeeper Juan Musso had restarted play with a goal kick.
The game was at 1-0 after Julián Álvarez had given Atlético the lead. Pau Cubarsí’s red card further complicated matters for Barcelona.
Alexander Sørloth later added a second goal for Atlético, putting them in a strong position for the second leg.
UEFA’s Decision
UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) reviewed Barcelona’s arguments. The CEDB decided that there was no case to answer.
A short statement confirmed the decision: “The UEFA Control Ethics and Disciplinary Body has declared the protest to be inadmissible.”
Flick’s Reaction
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick was unhappy after the game. He felt that Pubill should have been sent off. Flick believed his team should have been awarded a penalty.
Speaking ahead of the second leg, Flick stated he was calm. He expressed confidence in the referee chosen for the return game, Clément Turpin.
“I am calm now,” he said. “I have had enough time. [Turpin] is an experienced referee. No doubts.”
Looking Ahead
The winners of the tie between Atlético Madrid and Barcelona will face either Arsenal or Sporting CP in the semi-final.