A Champions League match between Atletico Madrid and Arsenal was filled with drama when referee Danny Makkelie awarded a late penalty to the Premier League side before overturning the decision after a VAR check.
The Penalty Decision and VAR Intervention
In the 78th minute of the semi-final first leg, Makkelie pointed to the spot when Eberechi Eze went down following a challenge from David Hancko. Atletico’s players and staff protested the decision. VAR Dennis Higler told Makkelie to review his decision.
After watching 13 replays of the incident, from two different camera angles, Makkelie opted to cancel the penalty. The cancellation came three minutes and 20 seconds after the penalty was initially awarded.
Arteta’s Disappointment and Simeone’s Antics
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his frustration, stating he was “extremely disappointed and annoyed” to TNT Sports after the game. On the touchline, Atletico manager Diego Simeone gestured for VAR with his arms repeatedly.
When Makkelie went to the replay screen, Simeone came out of his technical area to within five or six metres of the Dutchman, continuing to state Atletico’s case.
The Eze-Hancko Incident in Detail
The incident occurred at the end of a passing move involving Leandro Trossard and Declan Rice, who passed to Bukayo Saka. Saka played a square pass towards Eze, who was just inside the penalty area.
Eze went for the ball with his right foot, attempting to flick it past Hancko. Replays showed Eze nudged the ball past Hancko’s outstretched right leg. Hancko’s right foot then made contact with Eze’s right boot, causing Eze to fall.
Hancko protested the original penalty decision and was booked for dissent. Several other players also complained to Makkelie.
Eze was incensed.
The Match Context
Arsenal had taken the lead through a Viktor Gyokeres penalty late in the first half. Despite conceding an equaliser just before the hour mark, they appeared to have weathered the worst of the Atletico storm heading into the final 10 minutes.
The game was finely poised.