'It's a shame' - Barcelona get lucky as referee admits crucial 'mistake' before La Liga champions' goal in Real Sociedad win

Barcelona’s comeback 2-1 victory over Sociedad hinged on a controversial moment. The referee admitted after the match that he wrongly awarded the corner that led to Kounde's equaliser. La Real, who had taken the lead in the 31st minute through Alvaro Odriozola, were furious as the Catalans used the momentum to complete the turnaround with Robert Lewandowski’s header in the second half.

Goalkeeper Remiro revealed in the mixed zone that the referee accepted his mistake: "I've also complained... We've spoken with Alejandro, with the referee, and he's accepted his mistake. It's more of a mistake for us to defend the corner poorly."

He added: "It's a shame, and VAR can't be used due to protocol, and I don't think it should be used either, because otherwise it would be outrageous. It's a fine line. Corner, and we were bad in that particular moment defending, and we need to correct it."

For Sociedad, the decision only deepens their struggles, sitting in 17th and battling for early-season points, this blow feels especially damaging. For Barcelona, however, the win was priceless, putting them back on top of La Liga after Real Madrid suffered a 5-2 loss against Atletico. Beyond the controversy, Flicks side were lifted by Lamine Yamal’s lively cameo, who came on in the 58th minute and assisted Lewandowski’s decisive goal.

Sociedad will look to bounce back when they face Rayo Vallecano next weekend, needing points to move clear of the relegation zone. Barcelona, meanwhile, turn their attention to the Champions League, where they face Paris Saint-Germain in a high-stakes midweek clash that will test their defensive organisation and attacking fluidity.