UEFA's attempt to clarify a new rule around goalkeepers jumping off the line in penalty situations has backfired following Chelsea's shootout loss to Liverpool.
The Reds won the European Super Cup last night (Wednesday) thanks to a 5-4 shootout win over Chelsea, with Adrian making the decisive save to deny Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham.
Olivier Giroud had given Chelsea the lead but Liverpool hit back and led 2-1 in extra-time thanks to two Sadio Mane goals.
Jorginho levelled for the Blues after Abraham was brought down by Adrian before a penalty shootout took centre stage.
But while there wasn't a massive furore post-match following Adrian's key save, Chelsea fans have since reacted furiously at the sight of the Liverpool goalkeeper creeping forward off his line before Abraham connected with the ball.
It has led to calls from Chelsea supporters insisting that the penalty should have been retaken.
UEFA announced new rule changes ahead of the 2019/20 campaign which detailed what goalkeepers must do before a penalty is taken.
A new ruling states: "The goalkeeper must have at least part of one foot on/in line with the goal line when the kick is taken; cannot stand behind the line."
ESPN have since reported that UEFA Chief Refereeing Officer Roberto Rosetti said before the Super Cup that 'goalkeepers will only be penalised by VAR for leaving the line if it’s a blatant and violation of the new law'.
Furthermore, the media outlet also state that DFB (German Football Association) will not be using VAR to the letter of the law in regards to the new penalty rule change. VAR has been used in the Bundesliga since the start of the 2017/18 season.
This clarification of the rules is certainly not clear and will do little to ease the pain of Chelsea fans recovering from a cruel Super Cup defeat to Liverpool.
