Referee makes two controversial decisions in Barcelona’s favor in first half against Rayo Vallecano

Barcelona is playing at home against Rayo Vallecano in matchday 24 of La Liga, and the first half has already been filled with controversy.

Details: Midway through the first half, Barcelona was awarded a penalty, which was converted by La Liga’s top scorer, Robert Lewandowski.

The referee pointed to the spot for a foul by Pape Cissé on Barcelona center-back Iñigo Martínez during a corner kick. However, most experts agree that the penalty was not awarded correctly.

Later, towards the end of the first half, Jorge De Frutos scored for Rayo Vallecano, but the referee disallowed the goal after a VAR review due to offside. However, De Frutos himself was not offside, but Randy Nteka was—blocking Iñigo Martínez. The officials ruled that Nteka’s actions influenced the play, leading to the decision to disallow the goal. In this instance, expert opinions were divided, with many believing the goal should have stood.

Reminder: Jules Koundé was not included in Barcelona’s starting lineup today after arriving late to the team meeting before the match.