UEFA Releases Controversial Statement Explaining VAR Decision in Cyriel Dessers Penalty Incident
The football world is once again gripped by controversy after UEFA released an official statement addressing the shocking incident involving Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers during a crucial match.
In a moment that left fans and pundits stunned, Dessers was clearly pulled back inside the penalty box with his shirt visibly torn—an act that seemed an undeniable foul in front of goal. Despite the clear evidence, no penalty was awarded, and VAR chose not to intervene.
Rangers fans erupted in outrage, demanding explanations for what they believe was a blatant denial of justice. Calls for accountability echoed across social media, with many pointing to the importance of VAR in catching exactly this kind of infringement.
In response to the backlash, UEFA issued a statement defending the decision, claiming that the incident “did not meet the threshold for a clear and obvious error” and that the referee’s original call was allowed to stand. According to the statement, the VAR team reviewed the footage but concluded that the contact was “not sufficient to warrant a penalty,” despite the visible damage to Dessers’ shirt.
The explanation has only intensified fan fury, with many accusing UEFA of inconsistency and lack of transparency in officiating standards. Critics argue that if tearing a player’s shirt in the box doesn’t qualify as a penalty-worthy offense, then the rules and their enforcement need urgent reassessment.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear—this incident will be remembered as yet another flashpoint in the ongoing controversy surrounding VAR and its role in modern football.
