Spanish football federation has decided to rest La Liga referee Jose Maria Sanchez Martinez next weekend following his controversial decision during Barcelona 3-2 away win over Real Betis.
According to Reuters, the official seemed to lose control of the game, as Clement Lenglet and Nabil Fekir was sent off but not dismissing Sergi Roberto or awarding Lionel Messi a penalty.
“How can that not be a second yellow for Sergi Roberto’s foul on Alena?” asked Betis coach Rubi.
“Barcelona should have been left with 10 men, there’s no doubt about it.”
Real Betis’s vice-president Jose Miguel Lopez Catalan also criticized the officials after the game.
“We are indignant and angry because once again refereeing has hurt Betis and it has not been fair.”
Barcelona was incensed too, as Messi was fouled in the penalty area but no penalty given.
“In the end we could have won by more goals, if you look at the penalty they didn’t give Messi,” said Barca midfielder Frenkie de Jong.
“It was clear, they pushed him over.”