Manchester City faced a tough challenge against Barcelona in the round of 16 first leg of the Champions League, ultimately losing 0-2 at home. Despite their valiant efforts, City, who were reduced to 10 men during the match, struggled against the efficient but not overly dazzling Barcelona side. The loss puts them in a difficult position for the return leg at Camp Nou if they hope to qualify for the quarter-finals.
Yaya Touré, the Ivorian midfielder, expressed his disappointment after the defeat and criticized the refereeing, suggesting it influenced the final outcome. Speaking to beIN Sports, Touré stated, “We were unlucky. I am not someone who complains about the refereeing but he (referee Jonas Eriksson) contributed to our defeat.” Touré felt that the refereeing decisions favored Barcelona, and he believed there were missed opportunities for City to make an impact. He emphasized that in football, anything can happen, and each match has its own unique narrative.
