They Were Robbed!’: Marco van Basten Slams VAR Decision as Barcelona Snatch Controversial Draw

Legendary Dutch footballer and AC Milan icon Marco van Basten has publicly criticized the officiating after Club Brugge were denied a historic victory over Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League. The controversy centers around a stoppage-time goal ruled out by VAR, which would have secured a stunning win for the Belgian side.

The Champions League clash at the Jan Breydel Stadium ended 3-3, but the result was overshadowed by the late drama. Romeo Vermant’s apparent winner for Club Brugge was disallowed after a long VAR review, with officials deeming he had fouled Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.

Van Basten strongly disagreed with the decision, expressing outrage during a Dutch TV broadcast. “Club Brugge have been robbed! The goal for 4-3 should have counted. He doesn’t foul Szczesny; he doesn’t even touch him! It’s Szczesny himself who makes it look like a foul,” he said.

The Club Brugge vs Barcelona controversy has reignited debates about VAR’s growing influence and inconsistency in crucial matches. Many fans and analysts have echoed Van Basten’s criticism, arguing that the decision unfairly altered the game’s outcome.

Despite securing a draw, Barcelona’s performance came under scrutiny. Club Brugge led three times with goals from Nicolo Tresoldi and Carlos Forbs, while Barcelona equalized through Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal, and an own goal. After the match, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick admitted his side lacked intensity and control, calling the result “disappointing.”

As the debate continues, the Club Brugge vs Barcelona controversy stands as another flashpoint in the ongoing discussion about fairness and technology in football officiating.