In a recent episode of “Match Official: Mic’d Up” on Sky Sports, Howard Webb, the head of PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited), discussed some of this season’s notable VAR decisions, including two key moments in the Arsenal vs. Manchester United match. Webb’s insights shed light on these pivotal incidents, which raised eyebrows among viewers and fans.

One of these VAR decisions involved an offside call that nullified a goal. Webb emphasized the clarity of the decision, stating that it was evident through camera technology that Ganarcho was positioned ahead of Gabriel, making the offside call the correct one. The goal was rightfully disallowed.

Webb also discussed the cancellation of a penalty awarded to Arsenal’s Havertz. Initially, the referee explained that “Aaron Wan-Bissaka had fouled Havertz, but VAR revealed a different sequence of events. It was apparent from the video footage that there was no initial contact between the two players. Only after Havertz took another step did contact occur with Wan-Bissaka. This VAR intervention led to the correction of the referee’s decision.”

Overall, Howard Webb’s analysis underscores the effective use of VAR technology in these instances, rectifying incorrect calls and ensuring fair play on the field. These cases serve as examples of VAR’s role in enhancing the accuracy and fairness of soccer matches.