Xavi's anger: "It's a shame. We deserved to win"

In a week filled with disappointment, FC Barcelona faced another heartbreaking defeat in the classic against Real Madrid. Just days after their Champions League quarterfinals elimination against PSG, their hopes of contending for the League were dashed with a 3-2 loss. The Barcelona fans gathered at the end of the match to show gratitude towards their team, despite the defensive errors and controversial refereeing decisions that ultimately led to their defeat. The defeat may also mark the end of Xavi’s tenure as the Barcelona coach.

Marc André ter Stegen expressed frustrations over the goal-line technology issue, questioning why there was no clear image for review. He believed that the lack of investment in what is important in football is disheartening. Xavi Hernández also voiced his disappointment, stating that the team had not met the competitiveness level required to secure victory. He criticized both the referee and VAR for their decisions. Despite their efforts, Barcelona could not secure a win, despite playing better than their opponents.

The first half of the match was filled with controversy. Barcelona protested a penalty given to Lucas Vázquez, claiming that the Madrid player intentionally sought the collision with the defender. Xavi’s gestures from the sidelines captured the frustration of the Barcelona team. The VAR review upheld the penalty decision, much to Barcelona’s dismay. Later in the match, a goal was not awarded to Barcelona after a prolonged review, as it remained inconclusive whether the ball had entirely crossed the goal line due to goalkeeper Lunin’s positioning. The absence of goal-line technology, unlike in the Premier League, raised concerns about the league’s international impact and fair decision-making.

The injury of Frenkie de Jong added to Barcelona’s woes. In a challenge from Valverde, De Jong suffered a blow to his already injured right ankle, leaving the field in tears and unmistakable pain.