VAR rescues Nicolas Pepe after controversial dive decision in AFCON clash

During the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) round of 16, former Arsenal forward Nicolas Pepe was booked for diving despite a clear foul. The on-field referee waved away Ivory Coast's appeals and handed Pepe a yellow card for simulation. However, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) intervened, overturning the booking and awarding Ivory Coast a rightful penalty. This incident has sparked discussions about VAR's role in ensuring fairness and accuracy.

Zor

January 30, 2024

Var Rescues Nicolas Pepe After Controversial Dive Decision In Afcon Clash — Getty Credit @DeFodi Images / Contributor

In a dramatic twist during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) round of 16 clash between Ivory Coast and Senegal, former Arsenal forward Nicolas Pepe faced a contentious decision as he was booked for diving despite a clear foul. Pepe, attempting a skillful maneuver over Senegal’s goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, was unceremoniously taken down in the penalty area.

Much to the astonishment of viewers, the on-field referee not only waved away Ivory Coast’s appeals but also handed Pepe a yellow card for simulation. Outraged fans voiced their disbelief on social media, describing the decision as one of the worst in refereeing history. However, the intervention of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) rectified the injustice, overturning the booking and awarding Ivory Coast a rightful penalty.

Franck Kessie coolly converted the spot-kick, leveling the score and setting the stage for a gripping encounter that ultimately led to Ivory Coast’s victory in the penalty shootout, securing a coveted spot in the quarterfinals. The incident has ignited discussions about the role of VAR in ensuring fairness and accuracy in crucial football decisions.

HOW DID IVORY COAST NOT GET A PENALTY HERE😂😂

SENEGREIRA AREN’T BEATING THE ALLEGATIONS 😭😭pic.twitter.com/4yq2i9DvqY

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