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Five notable instances where VAR's intervention was decisive.
The implementation of VAR (Video Assistant Referee) in football has led to some game-changing moments, significantly altering the outcomes of crucial matches.
Let's explore five notable instances where VAR's intervention was decisive.
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21:55 - 07.12.2023
Chelsea defender blasts VAR Following Manchester United's Defeat
Levi Colwill has openly criticized the use of VAR, suggesting a bias against him.
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16:37 - 04.12.2023
5 worst VAR decisions in Premier League football history
The implementation of VAR in the Premier League has been a source of major controversy, with several decisions sparking debates and affecting match outcomes.
Brighton and Hove Albion 1-1 West Ham United
In this match, VAR played a pivotal role in ensuring the accuracy of goal decisions. Leandro Trossard, Brighton's summer signing, had a goal disallowed for offside after a VAR review. The technology identified that Dan Burn, who assisted Trossard's effort, was offside.
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This decision was crucial as it denied Brighton an early lead. However, Trossard managed to score later, securing a draw for Brighton. Without VAR, West Ham might have faced defeat, and Trossard could have celebrated a brace.
Manchester City 2-2 Tottenham Hotspur
A dramatic and contentious match, primarily remembered for its VAR intervention in the dying moments. As Manchester City and Tottenham were tied at 2-2, Gabriel Jesus thought he had scored a late winner for City.
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However, VAR spotted that the ball had deflected off the arm of Aymeric Laporte before reaching Jesus. According to the newly implemented laws of the game, any goal scored or assisted via handball would be disallowed, leading to the goal being overturned. This decision had a significant impact on the match, affecting both teams' standings in the league.
Paris Saint-Germain 1-3 Manchester United
This match is a memorable example of VAR's impact in the UEFA Champions League. PSG, holding a 2-0 lead from the first leg, seemed set to advance. However, a dramatic second leg unfolded, with Romelu Lukaku's double putting Manchester United in front.
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In the final moments, VAR awarded a penalty to Manchester United after Diogo Dalot's shot deflected off Presnel Kimpembe's arm. Marcus Rashford converted the penalty, sending United through to the quarter-finals on away goals. This decision showcased VAR's crucial role in determining the outcome of high-stakes matches.
Manchester City 4-3 Tottenham Hotspur
An all-time classic in the Champions League, this match saw VAR play a decisive role. Fernando Llorente's goal for Tottenham was scrutinized for a suspected handball. After a VAR review, the goal was allowed, enabling Tottenham to advance on away goals.
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In contrast, Manchester City's late goal by Sergio Aguero was disallowed after VAR detected an offside in the buildup. The emotional rollercoaster of this match, heavily influenced by VAR, is often cited as a testament to the technology's significant impact on the game.
France 4-2 Croatia (2018 World Cup Final)
The 2018 World Cup Final was marred by controversy, partly due to VAR's involvement. France's opening goal stood despite a potential offside, as VAR was not consulted. Later, a penalty was awarded to France after Ivan Perisic was adjudged to have handled the ball in the penalty area.
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This decision, made after a VAR review, was highly debated as it significantly swayed the match in France's favor, leading to their eventual victory. The role of VAR in this final sparked discussions about the technology's implementation and its impact on the game's flow and fairness.
These instances highlight the profound impact VAR has had on football, altering the outcomes of matches and, in some cases, entire tournaments. While it has brought a level of accuracy to decision-making, it has also stirred debates about its influence on the natural flow of the game and the spirit of football.
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