Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag was furious that Barcelona defender Jules Kounde didn’t receive a red card for his challenge on Marcus Rashford.
The pivotal moment occurred with United leading 2-1 in the second half of the match.
Kounde should have been sent off for blocking Rashford’s clear chance to score, although there was no foul called for the challenge that occurred well beyond the penalty area.
After Rashford’s goal and Kounde’s own goal had flipped the game on its head following Marcos Alonso’s opening goal for the home team, United was unable to hang on for the victory as Raphinha scored an equaliser to level the game.
It was a match that either team could have won, with United having the better opportunities overall but Barcelona coming out on top in the final stages.
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The tie is now perfectly placed for the return game at Old Trafford the following week.
Nonetheless, United manager Ten Hag criticised the officials for their lack of action on the Kounde challenge.
As reported by The Mirror, he said:
“The referee had a big influence on this game. It was a clear foul on Rashy. If it is outside the box, then it is a red card. He is one-on-one with the goalkeeper. It is a big influence not only on this game but this round.”
Due to the fact that the challenge occurred outside of the penalty area, VAR was not able to evaluate it in the past, but they were still allowed to review any potential red card decisions.
The second match will be contested at Old Trafford the following week, and for United, Lisandro Martinez and Marcel Sabitzer will make their comebacks.
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However, Gavi will not play for Barcelona in the second round, and Pedri’s fitness is also in question after he hobbled off the field at Camp Nou in the first half.
