VAR spark outrage with Digne handball blunder
Sydney Morning Herald
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Lucas Digne's handball inside the penalty box during a recent soccer match has sparked outrage among fans and analysts. Despite clear evidence of the handball, which should have resulted in a penalty, the referee only awarded a free-kick to the opposing team. This decision was not overturned by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), leaving many questioning the consistency and fairness of refereeing standards in modern football.
The incident occurred during a match where Digne, playing for his team, deliberately handled the ball with his arm inside the penalty area. Under FIFA rules, such actions typically result in a penalty kick being awarded to the opposing side. However, the referee initially chose to award only a free-kick, bypassing the more severe punishment of a penalty. This decision was widely criticized on social media and by football experts, who argued that it set a concerning precedent for future matches.
The controversy highlights the growing reliance on VAR in modern refereeing, yet this particular instance raised questions about its effectiveness. While VAR is designed to assist referees in making accurate decisions, it did not intervene to correct what many viewed as an injustice. This oversight has led to debates about the role of technology in officiating and whether it should be more proactive in ensuring fair outcomes.
The case also underscores the importance of consistency in enforcing rules within football. Critics argue that such incidents undermine the integrity of the game and can have significant consequences, particularly in high-stakes matches where a single decision can alter the outcome. Fans and analysts are calling for greater transparency and accountability from referees to ensure that such oversights are minimized.
Ultimately, this incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by officials in maintaining fairness on the field. As football continues to evolve, so too must the systems in place to ensure
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/14/2026