FIFA has officially announced that it is launching an internal investigation into a shocking VAR error that took place during the Champions League match between Arsenal and Real Madrid. The controversial incident occurred at the Emirates Stadium, where referee Irfan Peljto and his VAR team failed to issue a red card for a dangerous challenge by Real Madridβs Dani Carvajal on Arsenalβs Bukayo Sakaβan oversight that has sparked widespread outrage in the footballing world.
The tense quarter-final match between two of Europeβs top clubs was already filled with drama, but the controversy unfolded in the 38th minute. Saka, racing down the right wing, was subjected to a reckless studs-up challenge by Carvajal, leaving the Arsenal winger writhing in pain on the ground. The Arsenal bench, along with the fans in the stadium and those watching globally, immediately voiced their anger. Despite the severity of the challenge, referee Peljto issued only a yellow card after a brief VAR consultation, with no on-field review to follow. This decision sparked an outcry from fans, pundits, and former players, who labeled the tackle a βclear redβ and questioned the lack of a more serious punishment.
FIFA, under intense public and institutional pressure, swiftly confirmed that the incident is now βunder careful examination.β Sources indicate that there may have been a breakdown in communication between Peljto and the VAR officials. A FIFA spokesperson remarked, βWe are deeply concerned about the VAR oversight during the Arsenal vs Real Madrid fixture. Such mistakes compromise the integrity of the game. A thorough review is underway to assess the decision-making process of the officials involved, including Referee Irfan Peljto.β
The missed red card could have had significant consequences. Arsenal were leading 1-0 at the time, and a red card for Carvajal could have tilted the match further in their favor. However, Madrid maintained a full squad and managed to push back in the final stages. Though Arsenal won 3-0, the feeling of injustice remained long after the match.
Former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg commented, βThat was a clear red card. Weβve been told repeatedly that dangerous, studs-up challenges warrant a sending-off. VAR was supposed to fix these obvious mistakes, but in this case, it failed entirely.β
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, while diplomatic in his comments, expressed disappointment. βWe trust the officials and VAR to protect the players. What happened today was disappointing, particularly for Bukayo, who has already faced several tough tackles this season.β
The incident has reignited debates about VARβs consistency and the competence of top-level officials. Calls for reform are growing, including clearer guidelines, mandatory pitch-side reviews for red card offenses, and more transparent post-match explanations from officials.
As FIFAβs investigation continues, fans and stakeholders eagerly await the outcome and whether any disciplinary action will be taken against Irfan Peljto and the VAR team. One thing remains clear: this event underscores the urgent need for accountability and accuracy in the era of video-assisted refereeing. The integrity of the beautiful game depends on it.