VAR Audio Reveals Why Betis Goal Against Barca Was Cancelled
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Leaked VAR audio reveals behind-the-scenes conversations leading to the cancellation of Lo Celso's goal for Real Betis against Barcelona due to a handball.
Behind the Scenes.. Leaked VAR Audio Reveals Why Betis Goal Against Barcelona Was Disallowed
The high-scoring clash between Barcelona and Real Betis (5-2) sparked intense refereeing debate following the disallowance of Giovani Lo Celso’s 43rd-minute strike, which would have tied the game at 2-2.
According to audio leaked by Mundo Deportivo, pitchside referee Ricardo de Burgos and VAR official Del Cerro Grande focused on an early handball in the buildup. A Betis forward used his arm to gain control before passing, followed by a clearance from Jules Koundé that did not yield controlled possession for Barça.
Applying Technical Referee Committee rules—which state an attacking phase only ends when the opposing team secures controlled possession—officials ruled the handball part of the continuous attack, canceling the goal and awarding Barça a direct free kick.
