Furious Raphinha Cried Foul Play. Apology Follows Inappropriate Gestures, But Punishment Looms

Pulse Sports Team 16:45 - 15 April 2026

Barcelona footballer Raphinha has apologized for his reaction towards Atletico Madrid fans during the Champions League quarter-final second leg. The 29-year-old Brazilian winger also criticized the referees in Tuesday's match, which Barcelona won 2-1 but was eliminated from the competition.

Raphinha was sidelined for the second leg due to a hamstring injury. During the match, he couldn't resist making gestures towards the referees and later stated in interviews that Barcelona had been "robbed" of progression.

Furthermore, he gestured to Atletico fans, implying their club would be eliminated in the next round. "I apologize for my reactions, which do not reflect my values or character. It was a tense moment in response to a fan who treated me disrespectfully," the Barcelona player was quoted by AP.

His actions are expected to incur a penalty from the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA). Several other players also voiced criticism towards the referees.