Barca reach final with 'worst decision in Women's Champions League history', says Hayes

Trailing 1-0 from the semi-final first leg, Jonatan Giraldez's side took the lead through Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmati at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea's Kadeisha Buchanan was sent off in the second half for a contentious second booking.

And Fridolina Rolfo wrapped up Barcelona's 2-1 aggregate victory with a debatable penalty. In the final in Bilbao on May 25th, Barca will face either Paris Saint-Germain or Lyon, who meet in the second leg of their semi-final on Sunday with Lyon holding a 3-2 lead. It will be Barca's fourth successive final berth as they look to lift the trophy for the third time.

Hayes was furious with the decisions that went against her side, saying: "The second half we were coming on top. Then when you get such a shocking officiating decision, there's nothing you can do about it. It's hard when you've got 11. When you've got 10 it's virtually impossible.

"Even the Barca players said they knew the referee was helpful for them. I didn't think it was a foul, let alone a yellow card. I was surprised when I saw the referee selected. She's famous for easy cards. I think that's probably the worst decision in Women's Champions League history."

Chelsea's first-leg victory last week is the only defeat Barca have suffered this season, ending the club's five-year unbeaten record on home turf. Hayes, who leaves to take charge of the USA women's national team at the end of this season, said Chelsea would have to produce a perfect display to overcome "the best team in the world" again in the rematch.

Chelsea were unable to rise to the challenge and their wait for a first Champions League crown goes on.

 

April 27, 2024