Another controversial refereeing decision has surfaced in Serie A, this time during the match between Inter and Fiorentina, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
Pongracic’s Handball Incident
During the first half, with Inter leading 1-0, Dumfries crossed the ball into Fiorentina’s penalty area. Pio Esposito and Ranieri failed to connect with the cross, and the ball then made contact with Pongracic’s hand. Referee Colombo allowed play to continue, and VAR officials Maresca and Massa did not intervene.
Former Referees Weigh In
Graziano Cesari, a former referee, analysed the incident. Cesari stated on Pressing on Canale 5: “In my view, it’s a penalty because the cross came from a distance, the defender’s arm was outstretched, and the ball would have reached Thuram.” Cesari anticipates that the Italian Referees’ Association will deem it a correct decision.
Mauro Bergonzi, another former referee, shared his perspective on La Domenica Sportiva on Rai 2. Bergonzi stated that no replays of any kind were shown during the match. He added, “Pongracic strikes the ball with his right hand; he tends to spread his arm out to reach for the ball, so for me it warrants a penalty.”
Dissenting Opinions on the Call
Commentator Fabio Caressa offered his view on Sky Calcio Club. Caressa stated that they’ve explained that what matters is where the ball goes. He noted that if Pongracic doesn’t catch it with his arm, it goes to Thuram. Caressa added that what matters is whether the arm is extended or not, repeating what they tell us. He concluded by saying he doesn’t comment on it anymore because he doesn’t understand anything about handball offences anymore—it’s everything and the opposite of everything.
The debate surrounding the handball incident highlights the ongoing discussions about refereeing decisions in Serie A.