A wild and dramatic match between Barcelona and Benfica resulted in a 5-4 win for the Spanish side. However, the exhilarating game did not end without controversy as a late penalty call in favor of Barcelona left the home team and their fans fuming. Despite Benfica's protest, VAR did not intervene, giving Barcelona the winning goal in the dying moments of the game.
Benfica's Controversial Loss to Barcelona: A Detailed Analysis
Background
On November 23, 2023, FC Barcelona faced SL Benfica in a thrilling UEFA Champions League group stage match at the Camp Nou. The game was highly anticipated due to the historical rivalry between the two clubs.
Match Summary
The contest lived up to its billing, with both teams showcasing attacking prowess and a determination to win. Barcelona took an early lead through Lewandowski but Benfica responded with two goals from Joao Mario and David Neres. Barcelona fought back in the second half, leveling the score through Dembele and Ansu Fati.
The game took a dramatic turn in the dying minutes when, with the score locked at 4-4, Barcelona was awarded a controversial penalty. Benfica's players and fans protested vehemently, believing the call to be unjust. Despite their protests, VAR did not intervene, and Lewandowski converted the penalty, giving Barcelona a 5-4 victory.
Controversy and Aftermath
The penalty decision sparked widespread outrage among Benfica supporters and Portuguese media. Former players and coaches criticized the referee for making a "game-changing" error. Benfica lodged a formal complaint with UEFA, but it was ultimately dismissed.
The controversy overshadowed Barcelona's victory and cast a shadow over the Champions League group stage. Many observers felt that the outcome was tainted by poor officiating, and the incident raised questions about the reliability of VAR in football.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Why did Benfica protest the penalty decision?
Benfica players and fans believe that the penalty was not justified and that contact between Ronaldo Araujo and Goncalo Ramos was not sufficient to warrant a foul.
2. Why did VAR not intervene?
VAR officials determined that the referee's decision was correct and did not recommend overturning it.
3. What was the reaction from Portuguese media and fans?
Portuguese media and fans widely condemned the penalty decision, accusing the referee of bias and incompetence. The incident sparked outrage on social media and led to calls for a review of the officiating standards in UEFA competitions.
4. What were the consequences of the controversy?
The controversy overshadowed Barcelona's victory and raised questions about the reliability of VAR in football. It also led to Benfica lodging a formal complaint with UEFA, which was ultimately dismissed.
5. What is the history of controversy in Barcelona vs. Benfica matches?
Barcelona and Benfica have a long history of meeting in European competitions, and their matches have often been marred by controversy. In 2019, a Champions League game between the two teams ended in a penalty shootout after a highly contentious match that saw Benfica eliminated from the competition.
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