Barcelona’s past with referee Cesar Soto Grado adds difficulty to El Clasico | OneFootball

Cesar Soto Grado is set to officiate today’s highly anticipated El Clasico between Real Madrid and Barcelona. 

However, his previous decisions have sparked significant controversy, particularly concerning Barcelona, reports Mundo Deportivo. 

Notably, during a La Liga match on April 22, 2024, Soto Grado disallowed a goal by Lamine Yamal, citing a lack of evidence that the ball had crossed the line, a decision that has been widely discussed and criticised.

In addition to this incident, Soto Grado’s officiating in other matches involving Barcelona has raised eyebrows. 

Beginning in 2020

In October 2020, during a match against Getafe, he awarded a controversial penalty to Getafe’s Jaime Mata after a challenge by Frenkie de Jong on Djene Dakonam. 

Many felt the decision was harsh and detrimental to Barcelona’s chances. Furthermore, Soto Grado’s handling of physical play has been questioned. 

In the same Getafe match, he allowed what many perceived as excessive rough play, including a tackle on Lionel Messi that involved a kick, a push, and an elbow to the face. 

Despite being in close proximity, Soto Grado issued only a yellow card to Sergi Roberto, leaving Messi’s assailant unpunished.

Barcelona’s record under Soto Grado

Barcelona have a troubled history with Cesar Soto Grado. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s record with Soto Grado as the referee has been less than favourable. 

In the 2023-24 season, he officiated a match between Barcelona and Getafe that ended in a 0-0 draw. 

During this game, Soto Grado allowed what many considered off-the-ball fouls and obstructions by Getafe players, which went unpunished, leading to several Barcelona players sustaining injuries.

In August 2023, Soto Grado did not award a penalty to Barcelona after a non-existent handball on Gavi. 

Later, in October 2023, he disallowed a goal by Joao Felix against Granada due to an offside on Ferran Torres, who did not touch the ball. 

In April 2024, he awarded an incorrect penalty to Lucas Vazquez and disallowed Lamine Yamal’s legal goal. Then, in August 2024, he ignored a clear penalty on Dani Olmo against Rayo.

With Soto Grado’s controversial history, Barcelona supporters approach today’s El Clasico with a sense of trepidation.

The hope is that the match will be decided on the pitch, not by contentious officiating decisions.