The match between Celta Vigo and Barcelona ended in a 2-2 draw, but it was overshadowed by controversial refereeing decisions that left the Celta players and fans unhappy.
One of the main points of contention was a possible penalty for Celta’s star player, Iago Aspas, and a potential red card for Gerard Martin.
Martin, who was already booked with a yellow card in the third minute, committed another foul on Aspas just before half-time.
Many Celta supporters felt that Martin should have received a second yellow card, which would have resulted in his dismissal from the game.
Aspas was vocal in his protests, asking the referee for a second yellow card for Martin. However, instead of acting on Aspas’ plea, the referee, Soto Grado, booked the Celta forward with a yellow card for his constant appeals.
What did Aspas say to Martin?
As both teams headed into the locker rooms at half-time, there was a brief exchange of words between Aspas and Martin, which was captured by DAZN cameras.
Aspas, clearly frustrated, told Martin that the referee had seen the foul and that Hansi Flick, Barcelona’s manager, would likely take action to prevent Martin from receiving a second yellow.
“You fouled me. Flick saw you and will replace you,” said the forward
Flick did, indeed, make the decision to substitute the young defender at the break, likely to avoid the risk of him being sent off.
Martin, however, remained calm and responded to Aspas, explaining that it was a “small foul” in his view. The situation was quickly diffused when Celta players intervened and separated the two.
“But it’s just a simple mistake,” replied the Barcelona defender.
Despite the tensions, Barcelona and Celta continued to battle on the pitch, with both teams finishing the match on equal terms.
However, the refereeing decisions and the on-pitch exchanges left many wondering if the outcome could have been different under other circumstances.
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