VAR Drama Unfolds: Napoli’s Heartbreak Against Barcelona Deepens as Osimhen Penalty Appeal Goes Unheard

March 13, 2024March 13, 2024

Read Time:1 Minute, 27 Second

A picture of Napoli's team at the Champions League

Napoli’s Champions League dreams came crashing down in a 3-1 defeat against Barcelona, and head coach Francesco Calzona laments a pivotal moment that could have altered the course of the game. The Partenopei found themselves 2-0 down early in the second half, but a potential penalty on Victor Osimhen went unnoticed, leaving Calzona frustrated with the lack of VAR intervention.

Despite trailing 3-1 on aggregate, Napoli showcased resilience with an impressive team goal by Amir Rrahmani in the 30th minute. The tie could have been leveled if a VAR review had been initiated for a challenge on Osimhen by debutant Pau Cubarsi in the 50th minute. Calzona expressed bewilderment at the non-decision, emphasizing the need for thorough video analysis at this level.

Napoli’s Champions League Dreams Dashed: Calzona Fumes as Potential Osimhen Penalty Ignites Controversy in Defeat to Barcelona

A picture of Napoli's football player, Victor Osimhen

The incident occurred after a well-executed Napoli passing sequence, culminating in Osimhen’s run and a subsequent challenge by Cubarsi, seemingly treading on the Nigerian’s foot. The referee, Danny Makkelie, opted not to award a penalty, and VAR remained silent, leaving Calzona perplexed. “They should take all the time necessary to come to the right decision,” he insisted, believing the potential penalty could have altered the game’s trajectory.

While Osimhen endured a challenging night against Barcelona, marked by offside calls and missed opportunities, he contributed by creating two key chances for teammates. Despite the disappointment in the Napoli’s Champions League dreams, the team now shifts focus to Serie A, where they face league leaders Inter Milan on March 17. With an outside chance at securing a European spot next season, the Partenopei strive to capitalize on their standing, currently four points behind fifth-placed Roma in the standings.