Even though Barcelona beat Real Madrid 4-3 in El Clásico, the game wasn’t without controversy. The big talking point came from a potential handball by Aurélien Tchouaméni that wasn’t called a penalty.

A moment that sparked the debate

It all happened in the 80th minute, when Ferran Torres controlled the ball inside the Real Madrid box and fired a shot on goal. The ball struck the French defender’s hand, triggering immediate protests from Barcelona players who demanded a penalty.

VAR stepped in and called the referee over to check the monitor. At first glance, it looked like a clear handball, but after a three-minute review, the ref ruled there was no intent from Tchouaméni and let play continue.

Mixed reactions and what could’ve been

The decision lit up social media, where endless replays sparked fierce debate among both sets of fans. Many argued it was a clear penalty—and that the Frenchman should’ve even seen a second yellow. If the penalty had been awarded, Barcelona would’ve had a golden chance to seal the game and possibly finish it against ten men. But the game went on with no further referee drama.

The win keeps Hansi Flick’s side in the thick of the LaLiga title race, but the controversy left a lingering question that fans are still arguing about: was it a penalty or not?