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5d ago

Referee Audio and Balde Post Put VAR Handball in Barcelona Win Under Scrutiny

Newly shared audio citing Balde’s arm as away from his body has renewed doubts about consistent handball interpretation in Spain’s top flight.

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Overview

  • Barcelona beat Levante 3-2, but the key flashpoint was a VAR-recommended review that led referee Alejandro Hernandez Hernandez to award a handball penalty against Alejandro Balde.
  • The released referee audio states, “The hand is clearly away from the body. The shot is heading towards the goal. Penalty, no card,” explaining the decision on the field.
  • Alejandro Balde challenged the call on Instagram by reposting a still image and highlighting a poll in which 63% of respondents said it should not have been a penalty.
  • Coach Hansi Flick said he would accept the ruling and emphasized the importance of taking the three points from the match.
  • Pedri questioned consistency by referencing last season’s non-call on Aurelien Tchouaméni, and former referee Mateu Lahoz labeled the decision a mistake.