Barcelona Manager Xavi Laments Controversial Call on Potential Game-Winner That Was Disallowed
By Jeremiah Santos
(Photo : Fran Santiago/Getty Images) GRANADA, SPAIN - Xavi, Head Coach of FC Barcelona reacts during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Granada CF and FC Barcelona at Estadio Nuevo Los Carmenes on October 08, 2023 in Granada, Spain.
FC Barcelona nearly pulled off a remarkable comeback in their La Liga fixture against Granada at the Estadio Nuevo Los Carmenes on Sunday, October 8.
However, their efforts 2-2 draw, marked by a controversial decision by the officials that disallowed what could have been a game-winning goal for the Blaugrana.
The breakthrough nearly came for Barca when Joao Felix thought he had scored a dramatic late winner in injury time. However, his goal was disallowed due to a marginal offside call against Ferran Torres.
Barcelona boss Xavi about the crucial call that prevented them from taking a higher spot in the La Liga table.
"Just as the referee can rule out João Felix's goal, he can also give it. I think Torres doesn't interfere, whether Ferran jumps or not, the ball goes to the same place. Who is he interfering with?," the 43-year-old tactician remarked.
Lamine Yamal makes history
Trailing by two goals scored by Granada forward Bryan Zaragoza just before halftime, Barcelona's teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal reduced the deficit in injury time, providing a glimmer of hope.
The crucial goal - the Spanish winger became the youngest goalscorer in La Liga history with the strike at just 16 years and 87 days.
Full-back Sergio Roberto then leveled the game in the 85th minute, setting the stage for both teams to scramble for a potential game-winning goal in the match's dying moments.
