Is VAR supporting big teams, Raphinha's controversial goals spark fans' outrage

Barcelona FC dismissed Borussia Dortmund's challenge in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys Stadium. The Catalans defeated Borussia Dortmund 4-0 in a one-sided fixture. 

Despite Barcelona's unprecedented dominance in the game, the fixture was marred by a controversial goal. Raphinha was the focal point of the controversy.

VAR supporting big teams: Barcelona and Real Madrid 

Barcelona stamped their authority in the first leg of the quarterfinals right from the start. Barcelona FC took the lead in the 24th minute off a set-piece. Barcelona received a corner kick in the 24th minute. The teen centre-back, Pau Cubarsi, showed his aerial superiority as he connected a solid header off the cross. Just as the ball rolled towards the goal line, Raphinha tapped in the ball from the far side.

At first glance, it appeared that he had made an error, seemingly offside. However, after a VAR review, the goal was validated, and social media erupted. For many, the images presented by VAR did not align with the positioning of players on the pitch. It led to widespread dissatisfaction amongst football fans. 

The controversy comes at a time when a similar VAR decision closed the doors for Atletico Madrid to progress in the tournament. Atletico Madrid's striker Julian Alvarez's penalty was deemed no goal after he accidentally touched the ball twice as he slipped while taking the penalty.

FC Barcelona went on to score three more goals as Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal also found their names on the scoresheet. Barçelona's attacking trio scored goals and assisted in the same fixture.

Raphinha is in the midst of the best season of his career. The Brazilian winger has notched up 27 goals and 16 assists this season so far. He is the top scorer in the UEFA Champions League this season. The 36-year-old striker Robert Lewandowski has netted 37 goals and assisted thrice this season. Both these players stand as the top contenders for the next Ballon d'Or should Barcelona claim a trophy this season.

FC Barcelona is vying for a treble this season, with the team being active in all domestic and European club competitions. They will be back in action in the second leg of the quarterfinals at Signal Iduna Park on 16th April.