Barcelona expressed their dissatisfaction with the officiating after a thrilling 4-3 defeat against Inter in the UEFA Champions League semifinal. The home victory allows Inter to advance to the final on May 31 in Munich against the winner of the semifinal match between PSG and Arsenal. The aggregate tie ended 7-6, marking one of the most astonishing matches in the tournament’s history, concluding with a decisive goal by Davide Frattesi in extra time after a late equalizer by Francesco Acerbi.

Both Barcelona’s head coach Hansi Flick and midfielder Pedri voiced their concerns regarding some of the referee’s decisions, made by Polish official Szymon Marciniak, who is recognized as a highly experienced referee, having officiated at the FIFA 2022 World Cup final.

“It’s a bit of an empty feeling at the moment.”
*Frenkie de Jong reflecting on Barcelona’s performance.
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Frenkie de Jong

Flick stated after the match: “I think some decisions were 50-50, always favoring Inter. We have to accept it, it’s football. We can take pride in our performance, although it’s disappointing when decisions do not seem fair. We will look to win the Champions League next season.”

Pedri, expressing stronger criticisms, stated, “It’s not the first time we’ve faced issues with this referee. UEFA should investigate this matter. There are inconsistencies that are difficult to comprehend, especially regarding a penalty which was later ruled as a free kick.”

Barcelona is set to meet Real Madrid on May 11 in a highly anticipated El Clasico, while Inter faces Torino, trailing Napoli by three points as the season nears its conclusion.