The match between AC Milan and Lazio descended into chaos during stoppage time, featuring two red cards issued on the touchline, a VAR On-Field Review, and a decision that led Sky Sport Italia to label referee Giuseppe Collu as “a genius.”
The Rossoneri were ahead 1-0 due to a goal by Rafael Leao when stoppage time began and Alessio Romagnoli’s volley struck Strahinja Pavlovic on the elbow from close range.
Advertisement
Drama at the Touchline: AC Milan vs. Lazio
ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: SS Lazio head coach Maurizio Sarri during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SS Lazio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Initially, Collu allowed play to continue, believing Pavlovic’s arm was in a natural position as it was wrapped around Adam Marusic.
Contrasted emotions were evident as VAR denied Lazio’s penalty appeal in the 112th minute 👀 📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/ZS3JqEWEij — Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) November 29, 2025
However, when VAR reviewed the footage and suggested an On-Field Review, chaos ensued, resulting in red cards for both Milan coach Max Allegri and Lazio assistant Marco Ianni for dissent.
This occurred even before Collu reached the monitor to assess the clip, meaning he hadn’t rendered a decision yet.
Advertisement
Once he utilized the technology that allows referees to explain their decisions in real time, the moment proved shocking:
“After reviewing the footage, it’s clear the Milan defender in Number 31 had his arm outside the silhouette, but prior to that, he was fouled by Lazio Number 77, Marusic.”
ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Referee Giuseppe Collu during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SS Lazio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Sky Sport Italia pundits remarked that Collu’s decision made him “a genius,” as it satisfied and upset both teams.
Advertisement
“He let VAR rectify that ridiculous call but ensured fairness by not awarding what would have been a ludicrous penalty.”
The on-field reactions were equally intense, as Lazio players were initially jovial upon hearing the description of the handball, only to feel disheartened when Collu clarified that a foul had occurred first.