Italian media have predominantly supported the officiating during Inter Milan’s Supercoppa Italiana loss to Bologna, with La Gazzetta dello Sport rating referee Daniele Chiffi positively for his management of crucial incidents.
The pink paper highlighted its post-match analysis, focusing on two critical moments in the penalty areas, concluding that both VAR interventions were accurate and left little room for contention.
The first key moment occurred in the first half when Bologna was awarded a penalty due to a handball by Yann Bisseck.
“In the 31st minute, Bisseck handled the ball with his right hand inside the area,” Gazzetta explains. “Chiffi reviewed the incident to assess contact with Castro just before the handball, but that contact is deemed irrelevant.”
The assessment confirmed that the handball was clear, justifying the penalty decision.
Bologna 1-1 Inter – Chiffi Correctly Utilizes VAR
LECCE, ITALY – MARCH 10: Referee Daniele Chiffi officiates during the Serie A TIM match between US Lecce and Hellas Verona FC – Serie A TIM at Stadio Via del Mare on March 10, 2024. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
The second significant moment occurred early in the second half.
Inter was initially granted a penalty for a tackle involving Heggem and Ange-Yoan Bonny.
This decision was reversed after VAR review. “In the 11th minute of the second half, a foul by Heggem on Bonny was called live,” the report states. “However, upon reviewing the footage, it was evident that the attacker was the one seeking the contact, indeed, while cutting to his left, his leg made contact with the Norwegian’s right leg.”
Ultimately, Gazzetta dello Sport concluded that Chiffi effectively managed the most delicate situations, with VAR’s support playing a crucial role. In a frustrating night for Inter, the officiating decisions were not a point of contention.