The second leg of the Champions League quarter-final ended in controversy.
Details: After the final whistle, Barcelona‘s Raphinha expressed his frustration, accusing the referees of bias.
“We were simply robbed. It’s hard to accept that we need to work three times harder to win a match under these circumstances,” the Brazilian said.
Advertisement
Raphinha’s remarks drew a strong response from Atlético’s camp. Goalkeeper Juan Musso vigorously defended his team, emphasizing the legitimacy of the result.
“You have no right to claim you were robbed. It’s as if you’re suggesting there were multiple penalties or red cards. We won on the field, having taken the first leg 2-0. A last-man foul is always a straight red in football—there’s no argument here,” the Madrid keeper replied.
Atlético captain Koke took a more measured approach but also disagreed with Raphinha’s claims.
“Raphinha thinks it was a robbery? I respect his opinion, but I don’t share it. We didn’t steal anything. The red card was clear. Still, I respect his right to express how he feels after a loss,” Koke stated.
It’s important to note that although Barcelona won 2-1 in Madrid, Atlético advanced on aggregate with a score of 3-2.
Reminder: An Atlético player sustained a serious nose injury during the match.