Inter Milan defender Francesco Acerbi was involved in an incident with Barcelona's Inigo Martinez during a Champions League semifinal match Tuesday, May 6, at San Siro. The exchange occurred after Inter took a 2-0 lead in the first half.
Martinez appeared to spit in the direction of Francesco Acerbi as the Inter player ran past him following the second goal. The moment sparked a reaction from Acerbi on the field.
Inter's second goal came from a Calhanoglu penalty after Lautaro Martinez had scored the opening goal. The penalty decision and subsequent celebration ignited tensions between the two teams.
Images showed Inigo Martinez making the gesture as Acerbi moved to join his teammates celebrating the goal.
Francesco Acerbi immediately protested to the referee, complaining about Martinez's conduct. He showed clear frustration over the opponent's actions.
Neither the referee nor the video assistant referee appeared to notice the incident during play. No disciplinary action was taken against Inigo Martinez at the time.
Acerbi remained visibly upset for several minutes following the event. Teammates needed to intervene to calm him down.
As the first half concluded, staff members from the Inter bench entered the field to help prevent further confrontation between players before they headed to the locker rooms.
Inigo Martinez continued playing in the match's second half.
