Brazilian striker Raphinha was at the center of controversy following FC Barcelona’s thrilling match against Benfica, where his team completed a historic comeback. Just as they looked set to leave the Estádio da Luz with a defeat, the Catalans turned the tide to win, with Raphinha being voted MVP for his outstanding performance. However, it was the refereeing that sparked meaningful discussions beyond the action on the field.
Refereeing decisions have become a hot topic in recent FC Barcelona matches, with the match against Benfica seeing three penalties awarded. Previously, in La Liga, a contested non-signal could have given the team victory against Getafe. Raphinha was frank in discussing the differences between refereeing in Spain and the Champions League, humorously declaring: “If I say what I think, maybe I won’t play in La Liga anymore.” His comments followed criticism from club president Joan Laporta, who described the refereeing as “scandalous”, particularly regarding a foul on Jules Koundé which should have been sanctioned by a penalty.
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-Raphinha also recounted a heated exchange with some Benfica supporters after the match. As he left the field, he was confronted with insults from part of the public, which prompted him to react. During the press conference, he explained: “I am someone who respects everyone, but when I leave the field and people insult me, I react.” He acknowledged his behavior wasn’t ideal but noted, “We all get carried away in the moment.” This confrontation did not only concern one group of fans, with Raphinha noting that the section supporting Benfica could have understood the situation better instead of resorting to insults.
Although he admitted his reaction wasn’t appropriate, he insisted he doesn’t take things at home: “Whatever they say to me, I will answer.” Raphinha is not one to engage in controversy, firmly stating that respect is a two-way street: “If they respect me, I will respect them. I am someone who respects everyone.”