London: European football’s governing body has defended the controversial reversal of a late penalty during Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid, despite vehement protests from the London club’s coaching staff.
The incident occurred in the 78th minute of the Champions League semifinal when substitute Eberechi Eze collapsed following a challenge by Atletico defender David Hancko. Although initial contact appeared to have been made with the attacker’s foot, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) prompted referee Danny Makkelie to conduct an on-field review.
Following a lengthy examination of the footage, Makkelie rescinded the spot-kick. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta subsequently condemned the reversal as ” particularly given the potential impact on the second leg scheduled for next Tuesday.
Official Clarification
In a concise statement addressing the incident, UEFA supported the official’s final judgment. “Atleti player, No 17, did not commit a foul on the opponent,” the governing body noted.
The intervention has sparked debate regarding the consistency of technology in high-stakes matches. When the system was first implemented, UEFA defined its role as a safeguard against significant officiating errors rather than a tool for re-refereeing subjective calls.
“The VAR team will check all match-changing situations but only intervene for clear and obvious mistakes,” the organisation stated at the time of the technology’s introduction.
The dismissal of the penalty ensures the sides remain level as they prepare to conclude the tie at the Emirates Stadium.