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Barcelona secured a crucial 2-1 La Liga victory over Atlético Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano on Saturday, with Robert Lewandowski scoring the winner in the 87th minute.
Despite the win and being seven points clear at the top of the La Liga table, the match was overshadowed by a highly controversial refereeing decision early in the second half involving Barcelona defender Gerard Martín.
Referee Mateo Busquets Ferrer initially issued a straight red card to the young Barcelona player for a challenge on Atletico's Thiago Almada, with replays showing Martin winning the ball first before his studs caught the opponent's ankle on the follow-through.
However, after a VAR review and an on-field check, the decision was overturned to a yellow card, allowing Martin to remain on the pitch.
Atletico manager Diego Simeone criticized the call, insisting the footage was clear and the referee got it wrong. Meanwhile, Barca's boss has broken his silence on the controversy, standing by his side.
Hansi Flick stands with Barcelona over red card controversy vs Atletico Madrid
In his post-match comments, Barcelona boss Hansi Flick defended his player. He said,
“Gerard Martín was trying to clear the ball. For me, it was not a red card. Since the first time I saw it.”
Flick explained that from his live view, Martin went for the ball cleanly, though he acknowledged contact occurred afterward.
The incident has sparked heated debate among fans, with Atletico and rival supporters calling it a clear red. In contrast, Barcelona fans praised VAR's intervention and the manager's support for the emerging defender.
Meanwhile, the win keeps Barcelona in strong contention for the title. The match was won 2-1, all thanks to Marcus Rashford and Lewandowski.
They will next face the same team but in a different competition, in the UEFA Champions League, which will be held at the Camp Nou on April 9.
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