In Liverpool’s match against Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League round of 16, defender Ibrahima Konate appeared to be lucky to avoid a red card.
The Parisians’ vigor and perseverance gave Luis Enrique’s team the upper hand in the first half, and the Reds finished second. Bradley Barcola attempted to jump on a long ball over the top in the 26th minute, as they continued to move forward with purpose.
Konate was the last man and barged Barcola to the floor, but Italian referee Davide Massa waved play-on until VAR intervened to review the incident. Rio Ferdinand insisted that it was a send-off during his commentary for TNT Sports, but Arne Slot was relieved that the visitors won the match.
VAR upgraded the offense’s seriousness before deciding to clear the incident. However, according to GOAL, the foul wasn’t deserving of a red card because the video assistant referee was unable to recommend a yellow card because it wasn’t considered a clear and obvious error.
Ronald Araujo’s dismissal from Barcelona’s 4-1 loss to PSG last year is comparable to this incident, as the Uruguayan was the final man and brought down the young French attacker. Many people might be interested in hearing UEFA clarify the distinction, especially those who support the La Liga powerhouses.