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Catalan media fires up the microphone: refereeing under fire as Barça seals La Liga win

7 February 2026

Catalan media fires up the microphone: refereeing under fire as Barça seals La Liga win
Barça's win extends La Liga lead amid officiating debate.

Officiating controversy surrounds Barça's La Liga win

Barça extended their lead at the top of La Liga after a 3-0 win over Mallorca on Saturday at Spotify Camp Nou.

They claimed the events were not ordinary errors but deliberate attempts to stop Barça, citing controversial moments that allegedly deserved two penalties for the Catalan side.

The first involved a handball by Mallorca defender David López inside the box, the second a tackle on Lamine Yamal.

The Video Assistant Referee, Iglesias Villanueva, was criticized for not intervening to overturn the on-field decision, apparently.

Supporters and pundits called it a new record in heated debates over officiating in Spain tonight.

Punchline 1: If refereeing were an Olympic sport, VAR would bring home the gold.

Punchline 2: Tonight's drama proves football is basically theater—with extra stoppages for dramatic pauses.

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the match result and where was it played?

Barcelona won 3-0 against Mallorca at Spotify Camp Nou.

What did the Catalan media allege about the officiating?

They claimed the decisions went beyond ordinary errors and suggested deliberate attempts to stop Barça, including two potential penalties.

Who was the VAR official cited in the critique?

Video Assistant Referee Iglesias Villanueva was criticized for not intervening.