Late Drama at Montilivi: Girona Upsets Barcelona Amid VAR Controversy
16 February 2026
Montilivi Drama
The German coach questions the validity of the goal.
The ongoing refereeing saga in La Liga this season shows no sign of ending, and Barcelona seems to bear the storm wherever they play.
After weeks of complaints about controversial VAR calls, Monday night at Montilivi added another chapter of Catalan fury, as Girona's second goal was awarded amid heavy doubts from Barca and their coach Hans Flick.
In the 86th minute, with the match tilting toward a dramatic 1-1, the decisive moment arrived. A throw-in by Echeverri sent a run toward the penalty area, a pass to Roca, the substitute, who returned to Beltrán for a sharp right-foot strike.
The goalkeeper, Juan García, stood frozen as the ball hit the net. With only minutes left in normal time, Girona led 2-1 after Lemar's 61st-minute equalizer following Pau Cubars' 59th-minute Barca lead, for good.
The incident was reviewed instantly by VAR amid doubts of a foul on Conde at the edge of the area.
Although replays suggested Echeverri clipped Conde, the referee ruled the goal valid, prompting a dry, amused chuckle from Hans Flick.
