Alba left fuming at referee after Champions League exit: It was a penalty

Nicola Rizzoli gave a free-kick in the dying seconds for a Gabi handball that appeared to take place in the area, leaving the Barca full-back less than impressed

Barcelona full-back Jordi Alba insists his team were denied a crucial penalty as they exited the Champions League at the hands of Atletico Madrid.

A brace from Antoine Griezmann at the Vicente Calderon saw Atletico to a 2-0 win on Wednesday, as Diego Simeone's side advance to the semi-finals courtesy of a 3-2 aggregate victory.

But that was not before a controversial late decision as referee Nicola Rizzoli only awarded a free-kick for a Gabi handball, despite the incident appearing to have occurred inside the penalty area.

Alba refused to blame the decision for his side's exit, but said a spot-kick should have been awarded. If converted, Barca would have forced extra-time and been afforded the chance to salvage their Champions League campaign.

"I was told it was [a penalty], I also saw it on the field," he said.

"But it was not awarded and we have no choice but to move forward. The referee was good throughout the match.