Barcelona have never been a club that has been excluded from the media’s eyes. As they continue to be one of the world’s premiere footballing destinations, it is understandable that so much attention is thrown their way. However, too much negative attention has always been synonymous with Barcelona.
The Catalan giants are a club known for being dramatized within the public eye. Their infamous Negreira case, well-documented financial problems, and issues on the field are just some of the things that get exaggerated a lot. Yet, despite that, they are also rarely given a second glance when decisions do not go their way.
However, the scenario is completely different when they ultimately do get a decision in their favor. First, larger scale backlash to the likes of the Super League. That already caused problems with other governing bodies such as UEFA. Now, on a rather more timid scale, there is controversy about their latest victory.
Courtesy of a stoppage time Ilkay Gundogan penalty, Barcelona managed to overcome UD Las Palmas. However, both during the game and right after it, the losing team and their fans could not wrap their heads around the decision. A shove to the back of Gundogan as he was leaping into the air, for them at least, does not warrant a spot kick.
MARCA, however, seems to be in disagreement with their sentiments. With their latest report, they claim that the controversy created is an ‘artificial’ one. The report claims that the push was intentional, cost Barcelona a clear goal scoring chance, and was thus correctly awarded.
It also led to Daley Sinkgraven being dismissed with a red card for his foul. A rebound following a shot from Joao Felix was falling to the head of the German veteran, but he was ultimately shoved out of the way by his Las Palmas marker.
While they did receive the penalty, converting it required nerves of steel. Fortunately, Barcelona can thank Gundogan himself for his excellent composure. Slotting away the penalty, the German won his side all three points and stepped up when needed.
With this victory, Barcelona ensure that the gap between them and the league leaders remains at 7 points. While this is no short gap, it is still just enough to help Barcelona keep dreaming. Their next match now is against Barbastro in the Copa Del Ray Round of 32.
