Pedri Fires Back at Barcelona Penalty Critics, Throws Real Madrid's Record in Their Face

Barcelona's Pedri has urged Spain's football governing bodies to provide clear explanations after questioning a controversial handball penalty decision that went against the Catalan club during their thrilling 3-2 victory over Levante on Saturday.

The Blaugrana found themselves two goals down just before the interval when Levante's José Luis Morales successfully converted from twelve yards.

The spot-kick was granted following a VAR consultation, after the ball made contact with Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde's arm from a Morales attempt. The decision sparked debate due to Balde's arm positioning close to his torso. Speaking from a broadcast booth for COPE, former La Liga referee Antonio Mateu Lahoz, who officiated for 15 years, stated: "That's not a penalty, Balde cannot remove his hand."

Pedri drew comparisons to a similar situation involving Real Madrid's Aurélien Tchouaméni during last season's May Clásico encounter. In that instance, no penalty was awarded.

"I genuinely have no idea," Pedri expressed to Movistar following Saturday's match conclusion.

"We had a recent discussion at the Ciutat Esportiva regarding handball incidents. Tchouaméni's handball last season at Montjuïc seemed like an obvious penalty to me, while this one [involving Balde] didn't, yet they awarded it, so whatever decision they make stands. I truly don't comprehend it, but they need to provide proper clarification for everyone."

Luckily for Barcelona, their fightback commenced almost immediately after the second half kicked off.

Pedri netted a spectacular strike from beyond the penalty box shortly after play resumed, sparking Barça's revival. Moments later, Ferran Torres leveled the score from close range, with the match ultimately settled by Unai Elgezabal's 91st-minute own goal.

"Everyone constantly encourages me to take shots, but today I gave it a go," Pedri reflected on his contribution. "My first attempt with the left foot ended up in the [crowd], but the second one found the net."