Copa Nightmare: Barça Crushed 4-0, VAR Scandal & Lamine's Controversy - February 13, 2026
Barcelona suffer their worst defeat under Flick with a 4-0 Copa del Rey hammering at Atlético. VAR controversy and Lamine's confrontation fuel post-match debate.
Historic Defeat at the Metropolitano
FC Barcelona suffered a devastating 4-0 defeat to Atlético Madrid in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Thursday night. This marks the worst performance since Hansi Flick took charge of the Catalan giants, with an own goal from Eric García (6'), strikes from Antoine Griezmann (14'), Ademola Lookman (33'), and Julián Álvarez (45+2') leaving Barcelona's title defense hanging by a thread.
The result came just three days after the resignation of club president Joan Laporta, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the club as presidential elections loom. Sporting director Deco pointedly directed criticism at the players following the humiliating loss. David Sánchez remained optimistic about a potential comeback at Camp Nou, though most observers consider the tie all but over.
VAR Controversy Dominates Headlines
A major talking point emerged when Pau Cubarsí's goal was disallowed after a six-minute VAR review for an alleged offside. Frenkie de Jong was particularly vocal, stating: "If the image I saw is not AI, it's a scandal." The Dutch midfielder expressed disbelief at the lack of clear images justifying the decision.
Referee analyst Eduardo Iturralde González called the situation "embarrassing" and "worthy of a complaint," criticizing the extraordinary delay in reaching a decision. Manager Hansi Flick also expressed his bafflement, calling the entire process "a mess." The controversy has sparked widespread debate about VAR's implementation in Spanish football.
Lamine Yamal's Confrontation Goes Viral
Another controversy erupted when a 58-second video captured by @Aurafut showed Lamine Yamal repeatedly going after Atlético's Pubill during a second-half altercation that wasn't broadcast on television. The footage has provoked fury on social media, with fans divided over the young star's behavior during the heated encounter.
De Jong's Post-Match Reaction Sparks Criticism
Frenkie de Jong faced additional criticism for his demeanor following the match. The midfielder was filmed laughing with his former teammate Samuel Umtiti during a DAZN France mixed zone interview after the 4-0 defeat. The images quickly circulated on social media, with many fans questioning the appropriateness of his jovial attitude following such a heavy loss.
Flick Under Fire
Manager Hansi Flick also came under scrutiny from La Tribu director Raúl Varela, who criticized the German coach following his ironic "Ask Real Madrid" response during the post-match press conference. The cryptic remark added fuel to the fire as Barcelona now face the monumental task of overturning a four-goal deficit in the second leg at Camp Nou.
With presidential elections underway and the team's worst performance of the season fresh in supporters' minds, Barcelona face a crucial period that could define their season and the club's immediate future.
