FC Barcelona started the season very well. In the first two rounds they won twice. First they beat Valencia 2-1 and then Athletic Bilbao by the same score. On Tuesday they had a clash with Rayo Vallecano. Hansi Flick's team proved to be better again and beat their rivals 2-1. The goals were scored by Pedri and Dani Olmo.
Controversy in the FC Barcelona match. Spaniards point out the referee's mistake
The match was not without controversy. The Spanish “Sport” drew attention to the situation with Dani Olmo. In the second half, the new signing of FC Barcelona ran into the penalty area and was suddenly tripped by Florian Lejeune, after which he fell to the turf. The referee of the match, Soto Grado, did not award a penalty, and did not even check the situation in the VAR car. The journalists did not hide their indignation. “A clear penalty.”
And they also mentioned Robert Lewandowski's disallowed goal. In the 71st minute, the Pole headed the ball into the net after the goalkeeper's intervention. The goal was disallowed because Jules Kounde had fouled an opponent earlier. This time, the journalists admitted that the referee made the right decision. Thus, the captain of the Polish team did not score a fourth goal this season.
It turns out that this is not the first time that Soto Grado has made controversial decisions in FC Barcelona matches. The Spaniards recalled last season's match against Getafe, when he sent Xavi to the stands and did not award a penalty to the team from Catalonia.
With another victory, FC Barcelona maintained its leading position. After three rounds, it has nine points. Its next match will be next Saturday at 5:00 p.m. On that day, it will host Real Valladolid at its own stadium.