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The implementation of VAR in the Premier League has been a source of major controversy, with several decisions sparking debates and affecting match outcomes.
We take a look at five of the most contentious VAR calls, showcasing the challenges and impact of technology in football.
5. Andre Onana's Clash Against Wolves
Andre Onana's Premier League debut for Manchester United against Wolverhampton Wanderers was marked by controversy.
In the final moments of the match, with Manchester United leading 1-0, Onana failed to collect a floated cross and instead collided with Wolves striker Sasa Kalajdzic.
Despite the collision appearing like an obvious penalty, VAR did not direct the referee to review the incident, costing Wolves a potential point at Old Trafford.
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4. No Penalty for Rodri's Handball at Goodison Park
During the match between Everton and Manchester City, Everton were denied a penalty despite Rodri handling the ball in a manner that appeared to be a clear handball.
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Everton's appeals were ignored by VAR, leading to frustration and controversy, especially given the impact this decision could have had on the Premier League title race, with Liverpool finishing just a point behind City.
3. Pervis Estupinan's Disallowed Derby Day Goal
Brighton's Pervis Estupinan had a goal disallowed for offside in a derby against Crystal Palace. However, VAR drew the lines from the wrong Crystal Palace defender, and Estupinan was onside.
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The incorrect decision led to a draw instead of a potential win for Brighton, leaving coach Roberto De Zerbi furious.
2. Arsenal Denied Crucial Points Against Brentford
A significant error occurred when Brentford's equalizer against Arsenal was allowed to stand, despite an offside in the buildup.
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VAR's failure to draw a line for an offside call meant Arsenal was deprived of two crucial points in their title chase.
1. Luis Diaz's Disallowed Goal Against Tottenham
Luis Diaz's goal for Liverpool against Tottenham was disallowed due to a breakdown in communication between VAR and the on-field referee.
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Diaz was onside, but the VAR official, thinking the goal had been awarded, only communicated 'check complete' to the referee.
This decision was later acknowledged as a mistake, sparking significant controversy and calls for a match replay.
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As previously reported by Pulse Sports, the VAR decision to disallow Luis Diaz's goal for Liverpool against Tottenham was a significant controversy.
PGMOL boss Howard Webb released the audio recording of the VAR decision, revealing how the goal was wrongly disallowed.
This decision, which saw Diaz being onside, led to a 2-1 defeat for Liverpool and raised questions about the effectiveness and accuracy of VAR in crucial game moments.
The incident was so contentious that it led to Liverpool star Diogo Jota's wife publicly criticizing VAR and claiming the match was rigged
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