The acquittal of former footballer Dani Alves by the Catalonia High Court has ignited protests and debates about justice in sexual assault cases.

Feminist groups gathered in Barcelona's Sant Jaume Square to support the accuser, criticizing the court's decision as a setback for women's rights.

The court overturned Alves' four-year sentence, citing "unreliable testimony" and insufficient evidence to override the presumption of innocence.

Protesters argue this ruling perpetuates a culture of impunity and discourages victims from coming forward.

The accuser's lawyer plans to appeal, while critics call for judicial reforms to better address the complexities of sexual violence cases.

The case highlights the challenges victims face in proving their claims and the broader societal implications of such verdicts.