Topics: UEFA Champions League, Manchester United, Barcelona, Chris Smalling, Lionel Messi
Some believe that VAR technology should have been used to at least hand the English defender a yellow card.

Chris Smalling had stated before Wednesday's game that he did not fear facing Lionel Messi. Well, he made his case quite clear, but some believe he was a bit harsh while doing so.

The English defender hit Messi's nose while trying to get an aerial ball for Manchester United. He succeeded in his attempt to head the ball back into Barcelona's box, but Messi laid on the ground with blood coming out of his nose.

The game was brought to a halt so Messi could get medical attention, but the ref was not called by VAR officers to look at the clash, even if some fans were baffled by that decision.

Have a look at this controversial move by Smalling and let us know what you think (Image might be geo-restricted).

Here's a closer look at Messi's face after that clash.