Espanyol has publicly accused Barcelona and Spain defender Mapi Leon of “violating the privacy” of their player, Daniela Caracas, following an incident during a Liga F match. The event took place in the 15th minute of the derby match between the two Barcelona-based clubs, where Leon and Caracas collided while the Espanyol player defended a set-piece.
Video footage from the game, which has since gone viral on social media, appears to show Leon making contact with Caracas’ groin area.
Espanyol’s Statement
Espanyol issued a strong statement condemning the act, expressing their “total discontent and condemnation.” The club highlighted the impact the incident has had on Caracas, stating that the Colombian center-back has been subjected to “hundreds of social media insults” as a result of the viral clip.
Espanyol’s statement further elaborated:
“This is an action that we consider unacceptable and that should not go unnoticed. Although Caracas was unable to react at the time… later, when she came to terms with what had happened, she became aware of the seriousness of the gesture, but chose not to react angrily to avoid a disciplinary sanction and harm to the team.”
Barcelona and Mapi Leon’s Response
Barcelona and Mapi Leon have denied the accusations, releasing an official statement in which Leon refutes any intention to infringe upon Caracas’ privacy. Leon clarified her actions, stating:
“At no time did I, nor was it my intention, infringe upon the intimacy of my fellow professional Daniela Caracas. As the images show, it was part of a playing action in which she deliberately touches me and I touch her leg saying in reaction to the clash: ‘What’s up with you?’ There is no contact with her private parts, and certainly no intention.”
Leon further condemned the social media abuse directed at Caracas, stating:
“I condemn the harassment that Daniela appears to have been suffering on social networks, which has nothing to do with me, and I offer her my most sincere support.”
She also expressed disappointment over the controversy surrounding her name and warned of potential legal action:
“There has been noise and controversy aimed solely at damaging my image and principles by spreading manipulated news. I am deeply upset and disappointed, and hence reserve the right to take legal action against those who seek to exploit this strictly footballing incident.”
Espanyol’s Concerns Over Media Attention
Espanyol expressed their dissatisfaction with how the media has handled the issue, arguing that the focus has shifted from the incident itself to unrelated matters. Their statement read:
“We are concerned that, instead of focusing on the act itself, part of the media attention has been diverted to other issues unrelated to the seriousness of the action.”
Liga F and Match Outcome
Sky Sports News has reached out to Liga F for an official comment on the incident. Meanwhile, Barcelona won the match 2-0, maintaining their position at the top of Liga F with a five-point lead. Espanyol currently sits in 13th place in the 16-team league.
Player Profiles
- Mapi Leon: A key player for Barcelona, Leon has won five Liga F titles and three UEFA Women’s Champions League trophies with the club.
- Daniela Caracas: A Colombian international who played a significant role in her country’s run to the quarter-finals of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What exactly happened between Mapi Leon and Daniela Caracas?
During a Liga F match, Leon and Caracas collided in the penalty area. Espanyol claims that Leon made inappropriate contact, while Leon insists it was a routine footballing interaction.
2. Has Mapi Leon faced any disciplinary action?
As of now, there has been no official disciplinary action against Leon. However, Espanyol has condemned the incident and called for accountability.
3. What has been the reaction from Liga F?
Liga F has yet to release an official statement on the matter. Media outlets have reached out for comments.
4. Has Daniela Caracas responded to the accusations?
Caracas has not personally spoken out, but Espanyol has expressed concerns over the abuse she has received on social media following the viral clip.
5. Could legal action be taken?
Mapi Leon has hinted at possible legal action against those spreading what she considers “manipulated news” aimed at damaging her reputation.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the incident between Mapi Leon and Daniela Caracas has ignited debates about conduct on the field, player privacy, and the role of social media in shaping narratives. While Espanyol demands accountability, Barcelona and Leon maintain that the act was unintentional and misinterpreted. As the situation unfolds, official responses from Liga F and any potential disciplinary measures will determine the final outcome of this highly publicized dispute.