Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández expressed his frustration with the referee’s decision to send off Ronald Araújo during their Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain. Xavi referred to Romanian referee Istvan Kovacs as a “disaster” and claimed that the red card for Araújo in the 29th minute completely changed the outcome of the quarterfinal.
Controversial Red Card Alters the Game
Barcelona was leading 1-0 when Araújo received a red card for a last-man challenge on Bradley Barcola. According to Xavi, the referee’s decision was unjustified and had a significant impact on the match. He argued that the team was well-organized with 11 players and that the red card completely shifted the dynamics of the game.
Xavi Accepts Responsibility for His Expulsion
Xavi himself was sent off in the second half for protesting the referee’s decision not to award a penalty. He later accepted responsibility for his expulsion, acknowledging that it was his fault. Despite the controversial refereeing decisions, Xavi emphasized that it was a shame for the team’s hard work throughout the season to be overshadowed by one decision.
Barcelona ultimately lost the match 4-1, resulting in their elimination from the Champions League. Xavi expressed disappointment with the outcome and highlighted missed opportunities for his team to equalize the score. PSG coach Luis Enrique, on the other hand, believed that his team would have still progressed to the semifinals even if Araújo had not been sent off.
Looking ahead, Barcelona will face Real Madrid in El Clásico, where they need a victory to keep their slim title hopes alive. PSG will focus on their Ligue 1 campaign and the French Cup final as they aim for a treble.
Article updated 2 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
