In a top European clash, Real edged the Red Devils 3-2 on aggregate thanks to a 2-1 victory that was largely influenced by a harsh red card to United winger Nani.

“I am happy that Real Madrid won but honestly I think the referee played a big part,” Barakat told Ahli’s website.

“Nani’s red card was undeserved and it gave total control to Real Madrid. The performance of (Luka) Modric was also impressive.”

In a similar fashion, Ahli boss Al-Badri said: ”Even though I am a fan of Real Madrid, I think the victory was a result of the harsh red card to Nani.”