CTA backs referee decision to not award Osasuna a penalty vs Barcelona

CTA backs referee decision to not award Osasuna a penalty vs Barcelona

FC Barcelona took a big step closer to lifting the La Liga title this past Saturday when they defeated CA Osasuna 2-1 away at El Sadar.

Two late goals from Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres on either side of a Raul Garcia strike helped the Blaugrana clinch a crucial win at a tricky stadium.

However, during the match, there was a moment when the Barça fans had their hearts in their mouth as their team could have conceded a penalty.

Just six minutes in, Osasuna appealed for a penalty for an alleged foul on striker Ante Budimir by Joao Cancelo.

However, referee Isidro Diaz de Mera waved play on, and the VAR did not intervene either, much to the relief of Barça and the frustration of their hosts.

CTA backs referee decision

Now, the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) confirmed today that the referee’s decision in the match between Osasuna and Barcelona was correct, and that VAR was right not to intervene.

At first glance, particularly in still images, Cancelo’s challenge on Budimir’s instep appeared to be a potential foul. However, when the action is reviewed at real speed, the interpretation changes significantly.