Xavi had a feeling of “maximum injustice” after a Lamine Yamal goal was not given during Barcelona’s last-gasp Clasico defeat to Real Madrid.
Barca’s title challenge all but evaporated – Madrid now lead the table by 11 points with just six games remaining – after a 3-2 loss at the Santiago Bernabeu with England international Jude Bellingham snatching an injury-time winner for the hosts.
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The game was not without controversy though. With the score at 1-1, Barca thought they had gone back in front in the 28th minute when Yamal flicked an effort goalwards.
TV images appeared to show the ball had crossed the line but, following a lengthy check, VAR officials failed to award the goal. La Liga does not have goalline technology.
Barca boss Xavi said: “My feeling today is one of maximum injustice. Goes without saying, everyone saw it. My feeling is that today’s match was not fair. I can’t deceive anyone, let alone the fans There is evidence.
“I don’t need to say anything else. It would harm me and my image. Analyse it for yourselves.”
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— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 21, 2024
Barca captain Marc-Andre Ter Stegen lamented the fact there was no goalline technology in Spain’s top flight.
The German said: “I think it’s a shame that they couldn’t find an angle to check the goal. There is a lot of money in this world and I don’t understand that there can be no money to implement the technology that other leagues have.”
Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti did not want to get drawn on the matter. Asked about Xavi’s anger, he said: “I don’t want to comment on what Xavi thinks. Everyone has their own opinion.
“I prefer to talk about the game. It was well competed by both teams and, with the last drop of energy, we won and look good in the table.”
