The intensity is palpable in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final, particularly as PSG took an early lead, extending their aggregate advantage to two goals. As the match unfolds, lively debates arise over a couple of contentious decisions made by Portuguese referee Joao Pinheiro.
The first controversy came when the ball struck the hand of the already booked Nuno Mendes near the halfway line. However, the referee had noticed a handball by Konrad Laimer moments earlier. As a result, PSG was awarded a free-kick instead of Bayern. Had the decision favored Bayern, it likely would have led to discussions of a second yellow card and a red for the defender (29’).
The protests from the red-and-white side intensified just two minutes later. In a defensive clearance within his own penalty area, Vitinha struck the ball into the hand of his teammate, Joao Neves. Many, particularly those supporting Bayern, were clamoring for a penalty in this instance. Understandably, the atmosphere at the Allianz Arena grew even more intense.
Despite the outcry, the referee did not blow his whistle, nor did VAR intervene. This is likely seen as the correct decision, as when a teammate is involved in a handball while clearing the ball out of the box, it typically falls under the criteria for a non-punishable handball.
However, the interpretation of the handball rule often generates debate. Bayern certainly feels they weren’t treated justly.
What are your thoughts? How would you have ruled on the two controversial plays? Share your views in the comments!
This article was translated into English by AI. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.