During Liverpool’s recent encounter with Real Madrid, a contentious moment in the box sparked debate among players, supporters and pundits. A potential handball incident led Liverpool to appeal for a penalty, but the match officials ultimately waved play on.
Post-match analysis suggests that the decision was influenced by the interpretation of arm positioning, ball-to-hand contact and movement intent. VAR replays reportedly supported the referee’s judgement, concluding that the contact did not meet the threshold for a spot-kick under current regulations.
Though frustrating for Liverpool, the ruling has been upheld as correct by officiating experts, adding to the ongoing conversations around handball consistency in elite competitions.
