In the closing moments of Inter`s home match against Lazio, Nicolò Barella displayed evident frustration, expressing his dismay to referee Daniele Chiffi following the official`s decision to award a 90th-minute penalty to Lazio.
As Lazio made their final push for an equalizer, they moved the ball from right to left. Valentin Castellanos controlled the ball and attempted to flick it past Yann Bisseck, resulting in the ball striking the defender`s hand.
Initially, Chiffi allowed play to continue, but was soon called to review the incident on the VAR monitor. After a brief examination, the referee reversed his original decision and awarded the penalty, sparking intense protests from Inter players and staff both on and off the field.
Barella`s Emotional Exchange with Referee Chiffi
As Chiffi pointed to the spot, Barella, serving as Inter`s captain for the match, immediately approached the referee, visibly shaken and seeking an explanation.
“How can that be a penalty when he`s standing with his hands like that?” Barella exclaimed to Chiffi, as revealed in footage from DAZN`s Open VAR segment.
Chiffi attempted to calm the situation, saying, “Listen to me, stay calm.”
Barella, however, remained agitated, replying, “I can`t be calm, I`m playing for my life here.”
The referee responded, “So are we, always.”
Barella insisted, “No, you`re not playing for anything. I am.”
Chiffi concluded the exchange by explaining, “That`s how it is. He opens up and leaves it, making the movement.”
This incident highlights the high stakes and intense emotions involved in crucial moments of top-level football matches, particularly when controversial decisions can significantly impact the outcome.