Football is widely described as “modern progressive” now, and that includes every aspect of the game, not just the kicking of the ball. Over the years, the beautiful game has evolved in different forms, while some are outrightly good, others are not.
When the news of another technological addition to the world of football broke, it is fair to say most fans including myself were quite happy. This new technology, known as VAR ( video assistant referee) is introduced to reviews decisions in controversial situations, who wouldn’t want that?
The aim of the VAR is to intervene in decisions that involve goals, penalty decisions, direct red card decisions and mistaken identity in awarding cards.
After several tests over the years, VAR was officially given the go before the World Cup. The introduction of VAR at the World Cup was arguably successful hence its introduction into the club competitions.
The Italian Serie A and German Bundesliga adopted the use of the VAR at the beginning of the 2017/18 season while the Spanish La Liga adopted its use right after the World Cup, marking its use in top flight European football.
Constant use of the VAR for football decisions in these different leagues has however presented the VAR in a different light. Controversial decisions at different times in both leagues have left the viewers wondering if the rules that guide the use of VAR differ for the different leagues, competitions, and referees.
On January 20, 2019, Real Valladolid had a goal chucked out after 7 minutes as the goal scorer was controversially ruled offside, this was after play had gone on for about a minute. Valladolid went from being level to losing that game by 2 goals. I am of the opinion that decisions cannot be overturned once the play is continued.
The VAR intervention and decision in the Champions League match between Ajax and Real Madrid further reiterated inconsistency of its application across different leagues and competitions.
This article is inspired by the VAR decision in the match between Spal and Fiorentina in the Serie A, during the course of play, Fiorentina had a penalty shout waved away, Spal break with the ball and get a goal from play to put them in the lead, referee goes on to consult the VAR, chucks out the Spal goal and awards Fiorentina a penalty which put them in the lead, still left in awe as to the decision of the VAR, Spal concede another goal almost immediately.
All three games were arguably lost due to the questionable VAR decisions.
While the VAR can be said to have positive effects on match officiating, I think the rules that guide its effects should be the same in all leagues and competitions. I am also of the opinion that it should be made to intervene only in the decisions outlined above immediately after the incident and not after play has continued.
Uniformity in its intervention and decision is the only way it can enhance officiating, without causing chaos. Proper training on its application and decisions should also be given to all Football clubs: players and officials inclusive. A guideline on the rules should also be made readily available for Football fans all around the world. This would readily rule out all forms of speculations of bias and misjudgement.
Footy Parrot 
It’s a pity to spal, am with you VAR should be consulted immediately since the referee can interact with var officials, so it doesn’t need to be delayed,or to be considered once play have resumed.
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