PSG Awarded Controversial VAR Penalty vs Newcastle
Paris Saint-Germain found themselves at the center of intense scrutiny following a late penalty decision against Newcastle that sparked controversy. In the dying moments of the game, with Newcastle in a 1-0 lead, a contentious VAR ruling came into play. Ousmane Dembele’s cross struck Tino Livramento’s chest before grazing the full-back’s lower arm inside the penalty box.
The PSG squad vehemently surrounded referee Szymon Marciniak, claiming a penalty. After consulting with the VAR officials and reviewing the incident on the screen, the Polish referee eventually pointed to the spot.
Kylian Mbappe stepped up and converted the penalty, salvaging a 1-1 draw from what seemed like an imminent defeat.
Newcastle got robbed yesterday against PSG before the entire world, Mbappe seen advocating for penalty. That’s the same reason, Neymar Jr and Messi left.
Man City #PSGNEW #BarcaPortopic.twitter.com/k3pj6sv7lw
— Okakwu 001🦛✨ (@1stus001) November 29, 2023
Following the match, a visibly angered Alan Shearer took to social media, expressing his frustration with a profanity-laden tweet. His sentiments echoed the sentiment that officiating decisions were detrimentally impacting the game. Jeff Stelling also chimed in, indicating a disillusionment that might lead to a break from watching matches.
Notable football personalities and analysts joined the chorus of disapproval. Opinions ranged from disbelief at the awarded penalty to humorous takes on the situation. The general consensus was disbelief and dissatisfaction with the decision made by the officials, especially after the VAR review.
In other match updates, Borussia Dortmund secured a convincing 3-1 victory over AC Milan at the San Siro, confirming their berth in the knockout stages.
Meanwhile, Newcastle finds themselves in a precarious position, sitting third in the group with their fate hanging by a thread. Even if they secure a win against AC Milan in the final group fixture, PSG’s result in their match against Dortmund will determine the Magpies’ fate. A win for Newcastle coupled with a draw for PSG could see the English side progressing based on a better head-to-head record against the French team.