Has VAR solved problems? Here are some top VAR Controversies

VAR or Video Assistant Referee was introduced in football to reduce controversies and improve the accuracy of refereeing decisions. However, it seems that VAR has only led to more controversies in the game. Many fans, players, and managers have criticized VAR for ruining the flow of the game and making wrong decisions. Let’s take a look at some of the VAR controversies that have happened in recent times.

One of the most controversial VAR decisions came in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final match between Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur in 2019. Manchester City was leading the game 4-3 on aggregate, and they scored what would have been the winning goal in the 93rd minute. However, VAR ruled the goal out for offside, which led to Manchester City’s elimination from the competition. The decision was criticized by many, including Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, who called it a “cruel” way to exit the competition.

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VAR Inconsistencies

VAR has also been criticized for inconsistency in decision-making. In the Premier League, there have been several incidents where VAR has overturned a decision made by the on-field referee, but there have also been instances where VAR has not intervened when it should have. For example, in a match between Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United in 2019, Newcastle was awarded a penalty for a foul on striker Joelinton. However, VAR did not intervene, even though replays showed that the foul was outside the penalty area. The decision was criticized by Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho, who called it a “big mistake.”

VAR has also been criticized for its impact on the game’s flow. The time taken for the VAR to make a decision can be frustrating for fans and players, and it can disrupt the rhythm of the game. In a match between Liverpool and West Bromwich Albion in 2021, a goal was ruled out for Liverpool after a VAR review took over two minutes. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp was visibly frustrated with the decision, and he called for changes to be made to the VAR system.

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Conclusion

VAR was introduced to reduce controversies in football, but it seems to have only led to more controversies. The technology has been criticized for its inconsistency, impact on the game’s flow, and incorrect decisions. Many fans and players have called for changes to be made to the VAR system to improve its accuracy and reduce the impact on the game. However, until those changes are made, VAR will continue to be a controversial topic in football.