Liverpool’s Champions League campaign ended in heartbreak as they were eliminated by Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) after a tense penalty shootout at Anfield. With the aggregate score locked at 1-1, PSG triumphed 4-1 in the shootout, sealing Liverpool’s exit.
However, the biggest talking point of the night wasn’t just the result—it was a highly controversial VAR decision that has sparked outrage among Liverpool players, fans, and football pundits.
Liverpool were left fuming after a blatant penalty appeal was ignored in a crucial moment of the match. The decision—or lack thereof—has led to accusations that the Reds were unfairly denied a chance to progress.
“We Played Against Two Teams—The Opponents and VAR!”
A senior Liverpool player didn’t hold back in expressing frustration over what he saw as a shocking injustice.
“I couldn’t believe it when our clear penalty appeal was turned down. In every big game, it feels like we’re playing against two teams—the opposition and VAR. This was the final nail in the coffin. We were robbed. They made sure we were eliminated.”
His frustration was shared by the entire squad. With the match hanging in the balance, a clear foul inside the box saw Liverpool’s players and fans immediately appeal for a penalty. But to their disbelief, the referee refused to consult VAR, despite replays showing obvious contact.
VAR Under Fire as Fans Call for Its Removal
The controversial decision has sparked a social media storm, with Liverpool fans demanding that VAR be scrapped.
“That was a stonewall penalty! If it was another team, they would’ve checked it,” one fan raged. Another added, “They don’t even try to hide the bias anymore. This is a disgrace!”
Even football pundits joined in the criticism, questioning the credibility of the system. One analyst on live TV remarked, “This is exactly why people are losing faith in VAR. If it’s not being used properly, what’s the point? Liverpool were denied a fair shot tonight.”
Liverpool’s Champions League Exit Shrouded in Controversy
As the Reds now shift their focus to domestic competitions, this painful exit will linger in the minds of players and fans alike.
Many believe this could go down as one of the biggest VAR mistakes of the season, reigniting the debate over whether the technology is improving the game or making it worse.