In a major twist following a tense Champions League battle, it has now been revealed that VAR made a major error when it overturned Liverpool’s first-half penalty against Real Madrid — a call that could have changed the entire result.
Former Champions League referee Mark Clattenburg has stated that the decision to cancel the penalty was “wrong” and showed “a clear mistake in VAR procedure and judgment.” His comments have reignited strong debate among supporters, analysts, and former officials regarding the reliability of VAR in top European matches.
The Controversial Moment
The incident took place in the first half when Luis Díaz burst into the box and appeared to be tripped by Dani Carvajal. The referee immediately awarded Liverpool a penalty, only for VAR to intervene and send him to the monitor. After reviewing the footage, the referee reversed his call, claiming the contact was not enough to justify a spot-kick. The change angered Liverpool players and left Jürgen Klopp visibly upset.
Clattenburg’s Verdict
Speaking after the match, Clattenburg criticized VAR’s involvement:
“Carvajal clearly makes contact with Díaz before the ball. The original decision was right — it should have remained a penalty. VAR should not have stepped in.”
He also pointed out that VAR is only supposed to intervene when there is a clear and obvious mistake — which he says this was not.
“This was a subjective call. That means the on-field decision should stay. VAR ended up re-refereeing the situation.”
Reaction Across Football
Fans instantly took to social media, with many accusing VAR of inconsistency or even bias. Jamie Carragher also sided with Clattenburg, posting that the foul would have been given anywhere else on the pitch. Neutral fans also questioned why nearly identical penalties in other Champions League matches had been awarded.
What It Means Going Forward
The moment proved decisive, as Liverpool narrowly lost the tie. Many supporters are left wondering how the match might have played out had the penalty stood.
UEFA has not yet commented, but the refereeing team is expected to review the incident. Pressure is now growing for clearer VAR standards and more consistent interpretation.
Clattenburg summed up the situation bluntly:
“VAR was created to make decisions fairer. But if it’s overturning correct calls, then something is seriously wrong.”
For Liverpool supporters, it adds to the frustration — feeling once again that a key European decision went against them.
