Referee Blunder Sees Eric Garcia Sent Off as Barcelona Battles Monaco
Barcelona endured early drama in their Champions League clash against AS Monaco, with defender Eric Garcia being controversially sent off following a refereeing blunder.
The incident occurred less than 10 minutes into the match at Stade Louis II on Thursday night.
Garcia, formerly of Manchester City, was dispossessed by Monaco’s Takumi Minamino while trying to receive the ball from Marc-André ter Stegen.
As Minamino surged towards goal, Garcia appeared to pull the Japanese attacker down. Referee Allard Lindhout initially pulled out a yellow card, but confusion arose when Garcia began to walk off the pitch.
The referee ultimately brandished a red card, suggesting he initially showed the wrong color.
Commentator Sam Matterface, covering the game, speculated on the card confusion.
“It looked like Lindhout may have pulled the wrong card at first. But ultimately, a red card was the correct decision given Garcia’s foul on Minamino,” he remarked.
With Barcelona reduced to 10 men, Monaco quickly capitalized. Maghnes Akliouche opened the scoring, putting the hosts ahead.
However, Barcelona’s young sensation Lamine Yamal leveled the match just 18 minutes later, showcasing maturity beyond his 17 years.
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick praised Yamal after the match.
“He’s truly special—he changes the game. Despite his age, his ability to press and his technical quality are remarkable,” Flick commented.
Though Garcia’s early exit left Barcelona vulnerable, Yamal’s brilliance ensured the Spanish giants remained competitive, offering a glimpse of the future as their European journey continues.
