Marc Bernal: ‘If Cubarsi’s goal had stood, it would have been a different story’ | OneFootball

Marc Bernal was one of the standout performers for FC Barcelona last night as they came within inches of pulling off the improbable.

Trailing Atletico Madrid by four goals from the first leg in the Copa del Rey semifinals, the Blaugrana managed to win the second leg 3-0 on Tuesday night at the Spotify Camp Nou, ultimately falling short and getting eliminated.

Bernal laments controversial call from the first leg

Young Bernal was excellent on the night, like most of the team, with the 18-year-old midfield prodigy scoring two of Barça’s three goals in the game.

Speaking to the media after the match, the La Masia graduate lamented the controversial VAR call from the first leg when Pau Cubarsi’s goal was disallowed for a dubious offside.

The review lasted more than six minutes, and the semi-automated technology failed, so the lines had to be drawn manually. There was no choice but to trust the VAR officials. 

“We were talking about it in the locker room. If that goal had stood, it would have been a different story, and maybe we’d be in extra time now,” Bernal remarked.

Bernal stole the show vs Atletico Madrid. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Last night was the first time the academy graduate had completed the full 90 minutes since returning from injury. He ended the match feeling some fatigue, but played with the composure of a veteran.

“I don’t know if I’ve graduated. I did my best. It’s one of my first special nights here, it’s a shame we didn’t make it to the final,” he commented.

Talking about the performance and the result, Bernal analysed: “I think we played a very good match. I’m happy about that, but we didn’t achieve our goal, which was to reach the final.

“Everything we planned during the week went according to plan. If we continue with this momentum, with this hunger, I’m sure we can achieve many goals in the coming years.”

Concluding, the midfielder also acknowledged the support of the fans at the Spotify Camp Nou, saying:

“It was very noticeable. You really feel it from inside, it was very special. I’m very proud of the team and the fans.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo