Barcelona’s Win Over Girona Sparks VAR Controversy: Fermin Lopez Penalty Audio Revealed

March 31, 2025 – Barcelona clinched a 4-1 victory over Girona in their LaLiga clash on Sunday, but the win wasn’t without drama. A first-half incident involving Fermin Lopez has ignited debate after VAR audio from a denied penalty call was released, leaving fans and pundits questioning the referee’s decision. Here’s what went down in this heated Catalan derby.

The Moment That Lit the Fuse

Ten minutes into the game at Montjuïc, Fermin Lopez thought he’d won Barcelona a penalty when he tangled with Girona’s Yáser Asprilla right on the edge of the box. The 21-year-old went down, arms raised in expectation, only for referee Juan Luis Pulido Santana to wave play on. Moments later, Lopez was booked for simulation—a call that stunned the home crowd. Then came the VAR twist: the referee was called to the monitor, but after a review, he stuck with his original decision, denying Barcelona the spot-kick.

VAR Audio Raises Eyebrows

The RFEF dropped the VAR audio on March 30, and it’s only fanned the flames. You can hear the officials dissecting the play once Pulido Santana reaches the screen, but the chat beforehand—where the initial call was debated—is mysteriously missing. “Let’s see, show it to me,” the referee says as he reviews the footage. What’s clear is that VAR didn’t push for a penalty; instead, it backed the simulation ruling. Fans on social media are crying foul, claiming the clipped audio hides the full story of a controversial decision.

Barcelona Overcomes the Drama

Despite the setback, Barcelona didn’t let it derail them. Lamine Yamal’s free-kick forced an own goal from Girona’s Ladislav Krejci just before halftime, and the Blaugrana ran riot in the second half. Goals from Robert Lewandowski (twice) and Ferran Torres sealed a 4-1 rout, restoring their three-point LaLiga lead over Real Madrid. But for many, the VAR call—and that yellow card to Lopez—left a sour taste after an otherwise dominant showing.

What’s Next for the Refereeing Debate?

This isn’t the first time VAR controversy has shadowed Barcelona this season—think Eric Garcia’s non-penalty against Las Palmas or Lopez’s red card at Sevilla. With the audio release raising more questions than answers, pressure’s mounting on LaLiga refs to clarify their process. As Hansi Flick’s side gear up for a massive Copa del Rey semi-final against Atlético Madrid midweek, the focus might shift—but this Girona clash will linger in the minds of fans chasing fair officiating.