UCL: McManaman slams Raphinha’s “greedy” goal in barcelona’s 4-0 win over dortmund

DDM News

Former Real Madrid winger Steve McManaman has criticised Barcelona’s Raphinha for a controversial goal in the Champions League.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that Barcelona defeated Borussia Dortmund 4-0 in the quarter-final first leg at the Nou Camp on Wednesday night.

It was a dominant display by the Spanish giants, who overran the Bundesliga side from the opening whistle.

Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, and Lamine Yamal all found the back of the net in a high-energy performance.

Barcelona created several chances within the first ten minutes, pressuring Dortmund’s defence and controlling possession.

The opening goal came in the 25th minute, but it sparked immediate debate among fans and pundits alike.

Young defender Pau Cubarsi steered the ball past Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel with a clever touch inside the box.

The ball appeared to be heading into the net when Raphinha slid in and poked it over the line.

VAR immediately reviewed the goal to check if Raphinha had strayed into an offside position during the move.

Replays showed that the Brazilian forward was just onside, and the goal was allowed to stand.

Despite the confirmation, McManaman voiced his disapproval of Raphinha’s decision to touch the ball so close to goal.

The former England international accused Raphinha of being selfish and putting personal gain ahead of team contribution.

“He got away with it; he was just onside,” McManaman said while analysing the incident after the match.

“I have no idea why he is trying to poke that in from there,” he continued.

“He can see the whole goal, and he can see the ball going in without his touch.”

“There is absolutely no need for it. It’s greedy, pure and simple,” McManaman added.

“If he had messed it up, the team would’ve lost a well-deserved goal,” he pointed out.

“It’s a lovely goal until Raphinha gets involved and steals it on the line,” McManaman concluded sharply.

Barcelona fans were divided in their response, with some defending Raphinha and others agreeing with the pundit.

The goal overshadowed an otherwise brilliant performance from the 27-year-old, who was involved in other key plays.

Raphinha joined Barcelona from Leeds United in 2022 and has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his time in Spain.

However, his consistency and decision-making have come under scrutiny on more than one occasion.

Pau Cubarsi, just 17 years old, has emerged as one of Barcelona’s brightest young talents this season.

Many fans believed the goal should have been credited to Cubarsi for his composure and timing in the box.

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez praised the team’s overall effort but declined to comment specifically on the goal controversy.

Veteran striker Robert Lewandowski added another goal to his tally, continuing his strong form in European competitions.

Lamine Yamal, still only 16, put in a mature performance and scored his first Champions League knockout goal.

The victory puts Barcelona in a commanding position ahead of the second leg in Germany next week.

Despite the comfortable win, the post-match  was dominated by Raphinha’s controversial decision in front of goal.

McManaman’ comments have reignited debate about player ego versus team ethics in professional football.

Many pundits agree that such moments reveal the delicate balance between ambition and cooperation on the pitch.

For now, Raphinha may have the goal on paper, but the controversy surrounding it remains firmly in focus.

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