Get Guardian on GoogleUEFA has issued a clear explanation following the VAR decision to overturn a penalty initially awarded to Paris Saint-Germain during their Champions League semi-final first-leg clash with Liverpool on Wednesday night at the Parc des Princes.
The Ligue 1 champions were already 2-0 ahead, courtesy of goals from Désiré Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, when Liverpool’s situation appeared set to worsen in the 70th minute. Ibrahima Konaté was adjudged to have fouled Warren Zaïre-Emery inside the penalty area, with referee José María Sánchez immediately pointing to the spot and showing the defender a yellow card.
However, VAR quickly intervened and advised a review. Replays showed that Konaté had made a fair challenge and won the ball before any significant contact with the PSG midfielder. After a brief pitchside check, Sánchez overturned his initial decision, cancelled the penalty, withdrew the yellow card, and awarded a free-kick to Liverpool.
UEFA later clarified the call on its official Champions League live blog, stating:
“Decision overturned: no penalty. Penalty cancelled – no foul. Liverpool player No. 5 challenged for the ball in a fair manner without committing a foul.”
The incident sparked debate among pundits. Speaking on TNT Sports, Ally McCoist backed the decision, saying: “I thought it looked a brilliant challenge. He comes from behind, but it seemed like he got the ball cleanly.”
Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson disagreed, arguing: “Konaté gets on the wrong side and isn’t goal-side. He does get a touch on the ball, but I think he catches Zaïre-Emery first.”
Stephen Warnock was less certain, adding: “I’m still not convinced either way. He may brush the player before the ball, but I’m not sure it’s enough to warrant a penalty.”
Despite the decision going in their favour, Liverpool were unable to respond, as PSG secured a 2-0 victory to take control of the tie.
