Barcelona manager Xavi slams referee after PSG comeback
Xavi blames referee for Barcelona's Champions League exit
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández was left furious by the referee's performance in his team's loss to PSG
Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez berated the referee after his team's Champions League exit to Paris Saint-Germain, saying his performance cost Barcelona a chance to fight for a place in the semi-finals.
Xavi was particularly critical of the referee's decision to send off Ronald Araujo in the second half, a decision that turned the tide of the match in PSG's favor.
"The referee's performance was unacceptable," Xavi said. "He made several key decisions that went against us, and it ultimately cost us the game."
"The sending off of Araujo was a clear mistake," Xavi continued. "It was a soft challenge, and it gave PSG a huge advantage."
"I'm very disappointed with the referee's performance," Xavi said. "He didn't allow us to play our game, and he ultimately cost us the match."
Barcelona were leading 3-2 on aggregate when Araujo was sent off in the 56th minute. PSG then scored two goals in quick succession to take a 4-3 lead on aggregate.
Barcelona were unable to find an equalizer in the remaining minutes, and they were eliminated from the Champions League.
Xavi's comments are likely to add to the controversy surrounding the referee's performance in the match.
The referee, István Kovács, has been criticized for several decisions he made during the game, including the sending off of Araujo.
UEFA is investigating the referee's performance, and it is possible that he could face sanctions.
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