Clash of Claps and Controversy: Barcelona Triumphs as Referee Montero Becomes the Spotlight
4 February 2026
Match Moments
Was loyalty to the club overshadowing referee Montiero?
Referee Montero Montiero drew attention for a bizarre gesture in the Barcelona vs Albacete Copa del Rey quarterfinal.
Barcelona booked a place in the Copa del Rey semi-finals after a dramatic 2-1 win over Albacete.
Lamine Yamal opened in the 39th minute, Araújo doubled in the 56th, while Moreno pulled one back for Albacete in the 87th.
Cameras captured Montero raising his arms in a strange manner, which Mundo Deportivo described as spontaneous.
Explanations circulated, with some suggesting the referee was preparing to celebrate a home goal, and others that it expressed regret for a missed chance.
Sports daily Sport added that it's unusual to see a referee react so clearly in a decisive moment, heightening the controversy.
Post-match Perspectives
Conclusion lines with a light touch to keep the mood upbeat: If that gesture counted as a goal, Montero would be the top scorer tonight.
Seems like the drama wasn’t over when the final whistle blew—the referee’s arm workout kept the spotlight alive.
