VAR Interventions Spark Controversy in Champions League Matches

In a dramatic Champions League evening, VAR interventions sparked controversy in two high-profile matches. Liverpool and Arsenal were both impacted by disputed decisions, while Tottenham's Brennan Johnson was sent off in a heated encounter.

Liverpool's Free-Kick Reversal

Liverpool fans were left bewildered when a free-kick awarded against Real Madrid was overturned to a dropped ball. The incident occurred in the 30th minute when Dominik Szoboszlai's shot was blocked by Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni. Referee Istvan Kovacs initially awarded a free-kick for handball, but VAR intervened, and the decision was changed.

The VAR, Bastian Dankert, determined that the handball occurred inside the box, making it a penalty. However, since the referee had already made a subjective decision on handball, he reviewed the play and ultimately decided to restart with a dropped ball for goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. This decision left Liverpool fans stunned, as they gave up their attacking possession.

Arsenal's Lucky Penalty

Arsenal, on the other hand, benefited from a contentious VAR penalty in their match against Slavia Prague. In the 32nd minute, Lukas Provod was ruled to have handled the ball after a corner was played into the box. Although the ball came off Provod's head and onto his arm, the VAR deemed it a penalty.

The decision was influenced by the fact that the arm was above the shoulder, increasing the risk of a spot-kick being awarded. This incident highlighted the nuances of VAR protocols in European competitions, where greater weight is given to decisions when an arm is above the shoulder.

Johnson's Unlucky Red Card

Tottenham's Brennan Johnson was sent off in the 57th minute of their match against FC Copenhagen after a VAR review. Johnson stretched to win the ball but caught the back of Marcos Lopez's leg with his studs up. Although the referee initially showed a yellow card, the VAR deemed it a clear and obvious error, resulting in a red card.

Uefa takes a strict stance on challenges with a straight leg and studs up, and Johnson's unlucky tackle ultimately led to his dismissal.