The Spanish Football Federation’s Referees Committee has settled the controversy surrounding Barcelona’s match against Girona, played at Montilivi Stadium, after acknowledging a significant refereeing error in the second goal that secured Girona’s victory and cost the Catalan team the top spot at the time, which went to Real Madrid.
Official Admission of a Significant Error
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The committee explained in its report that Girona’s second goal was illegitimate because Argentine player Claudio Etcheverry stepped on the foot of Barcelona defender Jules Koundé immediately before scoring. This was considered a clear violation under Law 12 of the Laws of the Game.
The committee also confirmed that VAR referee Gálvez Rascón erred in his handling of the play. A foul should have been awarded to Barcelona, and a caution should have been issued to the Girona player instead of allowing the goal.
The Decision Will Not Change the Result
Despite the official admission of the refereeing error, the committee emphasized that the match result will not be altered, meaning Girona’s victory stands without any changes to the league standings.
It is worth noting that Barcelona later regained the lead after their victory over Levante, while Real Madrid stumbled with a loss to Osasuna, reigniting the title race in the Spanish league.
