The fallout from the latest Old Firm Derby continues, as fresh controversy has emerged regarding a potential penalty incident involving Celtic’s Jota. A newly surfaced camera angle appears to show that the referees and VAR may have overlooked a crucial decision, one that could have dramatically altered the outcome of the match.
The Controversial Incident
The moment in question occurred during a key phase of the game, with Celtic pressing for an equalizer against Rangers. Jota, who had been a constant attacking threat, appeared to go down inside the penalty box after what looked like contact from a Rangers defender. However, the referee waved play on, and to the shock of Celtic fans, VAR did not intervene to review the challenge.
At the time, the decision went unnoticed in the heat of the battle, but new footage from an alternate angle has now surfaced, allegedly showing clear contact that could have warranted a penalty for Celtic. If given, this could have changed the course of the game, potentially leading to a Celtic goal and a very different final result.
How Did VAR and the Referee Miss It?
One of the biggest questions being asked is: How did both the on-field referee and VAR fail to spot the incident?
• Lack of Review – Despite the controversial nature of the challenge, VAR officials did not call for a review or advise the referee to check the pitchside monitor.
• Poor Camera Angles – Some argue that the initial broadcast angles may not have provided conclusive evidence, leading to the assumption that no foul was committed. However, with the emergence of this new footage, there is growing frustration among Celtic supporters.
• Inconsistency in Decisions – Many fans and pundits are now pointing to other VAR decisions made in the league this season, questioning whether Celtic were unfairly denied a crucial moment in the match.
Fan and Expert Reactions
The new footage has sent shockwaves through social media, with Celtic fans furious over what they see as a blatant officiating error. Many believe that if the penalty had been awarded and converted, the momentum of the game could have shifted in Celtic’s favor.
Former players and analysts have also weighed in on the situation. One ex-referee stated, “From this angle, it certainly looks like a foul. At the very least, VAR should have advised the referee to take a second look.” Others have called for greater transparency in VAR decisions and suggested that the Scottish FA needs to address the growing concerns over officiating standards.
What Happens Next?
While the result of the match cannot be changed, the controversy surrounding this missed penalty decision is far from over. There are now calls for:
1. An official review by the Scottish FA into the decision-making process.
2. Better use of VAR in future matches to ensure that crucial game-changing incidents do not go unnoticed.
3. More accountability from referees and VAR officials, with demands for public explanations of controversial calls.
Final Thoughts
The Old Firm Derby is always filled with drama, but this latest twist has reignited debates over the standard of refereeing in Scottish football. With Celtic fans feeling aggrieved and Rangers celebrating a hard-fought victory, this match will no doubt be remembered for both its intensity on the pitch and the VAR controversy that followed.
One thing is certain: this debate is far from over.
