Martinez denies spitting allegation in Champions League clash

Barcelona defender Iñigo Martínez has denied allegations that he spat at Inter Milan’s Francesco Acerbi during their dramatic UEFA Champions League semifinal encounter. The incident in question occurred during the second leg at the San Siro, when Acerbi appeared to provoke Martínez while celebrating a goal that gave Inter a 2-0 lead just before halftime.

Martínez addressed the allegations in an interview with El Chiringuito TV, saying, “He celebrated in my ear. My reaction was unnecessary, but I never spat at him. If I had, I would have been sent off, no doubt about that.” The Spaniard admitted his reaction could have been better, but firmly denied any unsporting conduct.

The confrontation escalated quickly as Acerbi angrily approached Martínez and reported the incident to referee Szymon Marciniak. A brief video assistant referee (VAR) review was conducted to assess whether a red card offense had occurred. However, the officials decided no further action was necessary, and the match resumed without disciplinary consequences.

Later footage emerged that appeared to show Martínez spitting in Acerbi’s direction, further intensifying the controversy. Despite this, no retrospective punishment has been announced at the time of reporting, and UEFA has yet to make an official statement regarding the incident.

The match itself was a thrilling encounter, with Inter Milan ultimately progressing to the Champions League final after a 4-3 win on the night and a 7-6 aggregate victory following extra time. Acerbi played a pivotal role in the outcome, scoring a dramatic equaliser in stoppage time to send the match into extra time.

Inter Milan will now face Paris Saint-Germain in the final. PSG defeated Arsenal 2-1 in the semifinal game in Paris to qualify for the final.