Barcelona star Eric Garcia was sent off against AS Monaco after a slight card confusion.
On Thursday night, Barcelona kicked off their Champions League campaign with an away match against Monaco at the Stade Louis II.
Just under 10 minutes into the game, Barcelona was left with 10 players when Eric Garcia, a former Manchester City defender, fouled ex-Liverpool player Takumi Minamino.
Garcia was trying to receive the ball from goalkeeper Marc Andre ter Stegen when Minamino quickly closed in, stealing the ball. Garcia then appeared to pull Minamino down, leading to his red card.
Commentator Sam Matterface suggested that referee Allard Lindhout might have shown the wrong card. You can check out the footage below.
Barcelona goes down to 10 men early as Eric Garcia is sent off amid some card confusion.
Matterface commented, “I wonder if the referee has shown the wrong card because there’s clearly no intent to play the ball, which would normally warrant a red. Our information system indicates it’s a yellow, but I believe he’s off—this should be a direct red, and that’s the right call. I think the referee displayed the wrong card.”
After the red card, Monaco took the lead with a goal from Maghnes Akliouche. However, their advantage was short-lived, as Lamine Yamal equalized just 28 minutes into the match.
The 17-year-old talent received praise from Barcelona manager Hansi Flick for his impressive performance. He stated, “He’s truly remarkable, a game-changer at such a young age. Having him is crucial not only for his skill but also because he pressures effectively. His combination of talent and pressing is vital for us. He is exceptional.”
