La Liga release VAR audio after Barcelona concede controversial penalty in win over Levante

La Liga have published audio recordings from the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) explaining the controversial penalty decision against Barcelona during their 3-2 comeback victory over Levante on Saturday. 

The incident occurred in the first half when Alejandro Balde was penalised for handball after blocking a shot from Jose Luis Morales.

Referee Alejandro Hernandez initially allowed play to continue, but VAR operator Jorge Figueroa instructed him to review the incident. After assessing the footage, Hernandez pointed to the spot, ruling that Balde had extended his arm to block the strike. 

Morales converted the penalty, giving Levante a shock 2-0 lead at the Estadio Ciudad de Valencia.

Replays showed the ball striking Balde on the wrist, sparking anger from Barcelona players and staff, who felt the decision was harsh.

The VAR audio, released by Marca, captured Figueroa saying: “Okay, it’s quite far out, yes, correct, on the shot on goal. He [Balde] puts his arm out. Penalty, no card, just a penalty.” The clip was shared in an effort to clarify the reasoning behind the ruling.

Despite the setback, Barcelona responded strongly after half-time. Pedri and Ferran Torres scored quickfire goals to level the match before Levante defender Unai Elgezabal turned the ball into his own net, completing a dramatic turnaround for Hansi Flick’s side. The 3-2 victory preserved Barça’s perfect start to the season.

The champions had already begun their La Liga title defence with a 3-0 win over Mallorca, and Saturday’s comeback underlined their resilience under Flick.

While the VAR decision dominated post-match debate, Barcelona’s ability to overturn a two-goal deficit highlighted their growing confidence early in the campaign.

Barcelona’s focus now shifts to their next league fixture away at Rayo Vallecano on August 31, just before the international break. Flick’s men will be aiming to maintain their winning momentum as they seek to build early pressure in the title race.