The addition of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) is a divisive subject amongst soccer fans. On one hand, it’s great that the game is finally utilizing technology to assure that crucial calls are made correctly. On the other hand, using VAR to make a judgement call in a match-deciding scenario may be overstepping VAR’s purpose.
Paris Saint-Germain has every reason to be upset after what transpired in the second leg of Wednesday’s Champions League Round of 16 match against Manchester United.
PSG were up 3-2 on aggregate with two away goals apiece heading into stoppage time. Needing a spark, United’s Diego Dalot sent a shot towards goal, and it hit the arm of PSG’s Presnel Kimpembe. Play was eventually stopped for a VAR review, and it yielded the stunning result of a handball and penalty.
While it was clear that the ball hit Kimpembe’s arm, his back was turned. Kimpembe was in a vulnerable position (with his arms away from his body) to draw a handball, but the intent was questionable. It looked like he was trying to avoid getting blasted in the face more so than use his arms to stop the ball.
It was a borderline handball, at best. It certainly wasn’t blatant enough for VAR to overturn the on-field ruling and decide the match for Manchester United.
But that was what happened. Marcus Rashford calmly converted his penalty to give the Red Devils an away-goal advantage and a spot in the next round.
PSG won’t be getting over that Champions League loss anytime soon.
