In a recent Serie A clash, AC Milan narrowly defeated Lazio 1-0, but the match was not without controversy. The encounter featured a decisive moment in stoppage time, which has since sparked discussions about officiating standards.
Controversial VAR Decision During Milan vs. Lazio
The tension heightened as the match entered its final minutes. Lazio players voiced their frustrations over a potential penalty. Strahinja Pavlović’s elbow reportedly made contact with an Alessio Romagnoli header. This incident prompted VAR official Aleandro Di Paolo to request a pitchside review.
Key Events of the Review
Referee Giuseppe Collu conducted the review amid rising emotions on both sides. As he analyzed the play, Milan’s head coach, Massimiliano Allegri, was issued a red card for dissent. Collu ultimately awarded a free kick to Milan after determining that Adam Marusic had fouled Pavlović prior to the handball occurrence.
Expert Opinions on the Decision
Refereeing specialist Gianluca Rocchi commented on the situation, asserting that the appropriate call should have been a corner kick for Lazio. His remarks suggest that the VAR’s intervention may have been misguided.
Subsequent Actions for Officials
- Gianluca Rocchi confirmed the decision to award a corner kick was correct.
- Di Paolo faces a one-match suspension due to the incident.
- Referee Collu is not subject to any disciplinary actions.
Dialogue Highlights During the Review
The conversation between Di Paolo and Collu during the VAR review was revealing. Here are some highlights:
- VAR: “Possible handball, I must show it to you.”
- Referee: “Wait, there’s a Marusic foul before.”
- VAR: “I’ll show you the whole dynamic, okay?”
- Referee: “It’s a foul in favor of the defending team. Are you following me?”
- VAR: “I follow you, but it’s your decision.”
This incident has ignited debates about the effectiveness and accuracy of VAR in Serie A, raising questions about how such situations will be handled in future matches. The incident underscores the ongoing evolution of officiating within football and the challenges that come with it.
