UEFA has officially rejected Barcelona's appeal regarding an alleged handball incident during their Champions League quarterfinal first-leg match against Atletico Madrid.
The controversy centered on a moment involving Atletico defender Marc Pubill, which Barcelona claimed warranted a penalty. Following the match, the Catalan club formally lodged a complaint with European football's governing body, seeking a review of the decision.
In a statement, UEFA confirmed the appeal was dismissed, upholding the on-field referee's original call. The ruling means the result of the first leg stands as played.
This decision comes at a crucial juncture in the tie, with both teams preparing for the decisive second leg. The rejection leaves Barcelona to focus solely on their upcoming performance as they seek to overturn any deficit or protect an advantage from the first encounter.