Newcastle United experienced what many are calling footballing justice during their crucial Champions League encounter with Paris Saint-Germain, following a highly contentious VAR intervention that awarded the French champions an early penalty.
Controversial Handball Incident Sparks Outrage
The Magpies travelled to the Parc des Princes needing a positive result to secure a top-eight finish in their European league phase finale, but found themselves facing potential disaster within the opening minute. PSG's Bradley Barcola surged forward, and after being challenged by Newcastle's Lewis Miley, the ball deflected off the French attacker's arm before striking the arm of the pursuing Newcastle midfielder inside the penalty area.
PSG players immediately appealed for a spot-kick, despite the sequence appearing blatantly accidental and involving an initial handball by Barcola that altered the ball's trajectory toward Miley's arm. The incident left commentators and spectators alike bewildered by the decision to review it extensively through VAR technology.
Commentators Decry 'Ridiculous' VAR Review
TNT Sports co-commentator Steve McManaman expressed disbelief as VAR officials examined the incident for a potential penalty, stating emphatically: "It comes off Barcola's arm onto Miley's arm. He doesn't know anything about it. It's accidental. Leave it out referee and let's play on."
McManaman continued his criticism, adding: "He's chasing back, he doesn't know where his arm is. It's ridiculous!" Despite these protests, Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic was instructed by VAR to review the handball at the pitchside monitor, ultimately pointing to the spot after deeming Miley's movement toward the ball with his right hand as intentional.
Pope's Heroic Save Delivers Justice
The controversial decision set the stage for Ousmane Dembele, last season's Champions League golden boot winner, to step up and take the penalty in just the fourth minute. However, Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope produced a spectacular save to deny the French international, immediately sparking claims that justice had been served.
McManaman declared: "Justice has been done as far as I'm concerned. Awful rule, shouldn't have been given. Get on with the game." This sentiment was echoed by Michael Dawson on Sky Sports, who shouted enthusiastically: "What a save! Justice has been done!"
Newcastle's Resilience Tested Further
Despite this early reprieve, Newcastle's defensive resilience would be tested again just four minutes later when Vitinha found the net to give PSG the lead. The Magpies demonstrated their character by drawing themselves level on the brink of half-time through Joe Willock's crucial equaliser.
The match highlighted ongoing debates about VAR implementation and handball interpretations in modern football, with Newcastle's escape from what many considered an unjust penalty decision becoming a central talking point of their European campaign.
