FC Barcelona suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat at home to Atlético Madrid in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, leaving fans frustrated and the manager openly critical of officiating decisions.
Head coach Hansi Flick did not hold back in his post-match reaction, directing strong criticism at the use of VAR. The German coach believed his side were denied a crucial moment in the game.
“There was a clear penalty and a second yellow card for Atlético,” Flick told Movistar. His comments came after a key incident in the match that went unpunished, a decision that could have changed the direction of the contest.
Flick also questioned the purpose of the video review system. “What’s the point of VAR if it’s there in the first place? I can accept mistakes but I just can’t understand that,” he added, showing clear frustration with the officials.
The Barcelona manager further raised doubts about another major call in the game. “I’m not even sure it was a red card for Pau Cubarsí,” he said, referring to the sending-off that added to his team’s struggles on the night.