(foto: Posnetek zaslona)
Referee Alejandro Hernández Hernández sparked outrage after refusing to award Barcelona a late penalty for Aurelien Tchouameni’s clear handball in El Clásico, despite a VAR review.
El Clásico always delivers drama—and this time, much of it came from the referee's whistle. Alejandro José Hernández Hernández, the match official for Sunday’s thriller at Montjuïc, is under heavy scrutiny following several controversial decisions, especially a late penalty appeal by Barcelona.
In the 79th minute, with Barcelona leading 4-3, Ferran Torres unleashed a shot from inside the box that clearly struck Aurelien Tchouameni’s hand. Replays showed a firm connection and an extended arm, prompting immediate protests from Barcelona players and fans alike.
Hernández Hernández did consult the VAR, but to widespread disbelief, the decision stood: no penalty. The explanation? The referee reportedly judged that Tchouameni's arm was not in an 'unnatural position' and did not deliberately block a direct shot on goal.
Barcelona’s camp was incensed. Multiple players surrounded the referee following the decision, and club staff expressed frustration post-match, arguing that the handball met all criteria for a penalty—especially given the context and proximity to goal.
The incident has once again reignited debate over VAR consistency and handball interpretation in La Liga. Fans, pundits, and even former referees were split, with many questioning how a hand positioned away from the body during a shot on target could not be considered unnatural or punishable.
El Clásico ended in a 4-3 win for Barcelona, who now sit on the verge of the La Liga title. But the Tchouameni handball controversy threatens to overshadow a historic and otherwise spectacular match.