UEFA release statement after Real Madrid vs Arsenal halted for five-minute VAR check

Importance Score: 25 / 100 🔵

Controversy at Bernabeu: VAR Intervention Overturns Real Madrid Penalty

A moment of high drama unfolded at the Bernabeu as Real Madrid saw a penalty decision reversed by VAR during their crucial Champions League clash. Referee Francois Letexier initially pointed to the spot, awarding a penalty after Kylian Mbappe went down under a challenge from Declan Rice of Arsenal in the first half of the tightly contested match, with the score still 0-0.

Initial Penalty Award and Rice’s Protest

Arsenal midfielder Rice reacted with visible disbelief at the referee’s decision, immediately protesting his innocence to Letexier. Replays indicated that while there was contact, the challenge appeared minimal. Despite this, Mbappe seemed confident in the initial ruling and placed the ball on the penalty spot in anticipation.

VAR Review and Decision Reversal

However, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) intervened and summoned Letexier to the pitchside monitor. Following a careful review of the incident, the referee reversed his original decision, determining that Rice’s challenge did not constitute a foul.

UEFA subsequently issued a statement to dispel any ambiguity surrounding the decision, informing Real Madrid supporters that: “The penalty awarded to Real Madrid was rescinded due to a判定 of no foul committed by Declan Rice.”

Expert Analysis and Commentary

The VAR‘s intervention and the eventual reversal of the penalty were largely welcomed by commentators and pundits covering the match, despite the brief disruption to the flow of play.

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Matthew Upson, former England international, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, commented:

• ” [Rice] has his arm round the inside of him and Kylian Mbappe has thrown himself to the floor. That is embarrassing.”

Ally McCoist, Rangers icon and TNT Sports analyst, echoed this sentiment, stating:

• “I’m putting my cards on the table right now – I am delighted to see that decision.”

Earlier Penalty Drama: Saka’s Missed Panenka

The first half already had its share of penalty drama even before the Mbappe incident. Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka had a penalty saved earlier in the half. Saka attempted a Panenka penalty against Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, but his audacious effort was thwarted.

Having arrived at the Bernabeu with a 3-0 advantage from the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, another goal for Arsenal would have significantly strengthened their position in the tie. However, Courtois anticipated Saka’s chipped penalty, moving to his right to make a comfortable save.

Real Madrid’s Pre-Match Mind Games

In the build-up to the crucial second leg, Real Madrid engaged in psychological tactics through their social media channels, posting the message: “Ninety minutes at the Bernabeu are very long.” This alluded to the intimidating atmosphere and the challenge facing their opponents at their home ground.

Champions League Semi-Final Path

The victor of this high-stakes encounter is set to face Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the Champions League semi-finals. PSG progressed after overcoming a resilient Aston Villa on Tuesday. Despite holding a commanding 5-1 aggregate lead, PSG faced a fightback with goals from Youri Tielemans, John McGinn, and Ezri Konsa, creating a tense finale. Ultimately, Luis Enrique’s PSG team managed to maintain their composure and advance, keeping their aspirations for European glory alive.

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