Barcelona's Iñigo Martínez denied allegations of spitting at Inter Milan's Francesco Acerbi following a controversial exchange during the Champions League semifinal. The incident occurred after Acerbi celebrated a goal, provoking an angry response from Martínez. Although Acerbi complained to the referee, no action was taken. Inter ultimately won the match 4-3 after extra time, overcoming a thrilling match that saw Barcelona lead 3-2 before conceding late. Post-match, Barcelona officials expressed dissatisfaction with the officiating and called for an investigation into the referee's decisions.
Martínez explained the incident, stating 'He celebrated in my ear after the goal. My reaction to that was unnecessary but at no moment have I aimed for him.'
Acerbi immediately complained to the referee that Martínez had spat at him, but the referee deemed no action was necessary, reflecting the intensity of the match.
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