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HomeΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΟΣΣάλος με Σνάιντερ: Απέβαλε παίκτη, αλλά το… γύρισε με παράνομη παρέμβαση VAR!

Σάλος με Σνάιντερ: Απέβαλε παίκτη, αλλά το… γύρισε με παράνομη παρέμβαση VAR!

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Controversial Refereeing Decisions Overshadow Barcelona vs Olympiacos Clash

The recent Champions League group stage match between Barcelona and Olympiacos has ignited widespread debate, largely due to the contentious officiating by Swiss referee Urs Schnider. His decisions during the game’s critical moments have sparked intense criticism, raising questions about fairness and the impact of refereeing on high-stakes European fixtures.

Key Incidents That Shaped the Match Outcome

With the scoreline at 2-1 favoring Barcelona, Olympiacos was still in contention for a positive result on Catalan soil. However, Schnider’s controversial calls appeared to tilt the balance. The first pivotal moment was the harsh sending-off of Olympiacos player Ese, following a theatrical fall by Barcelona’s Casado. Shortly after, Schnider awarded a penalty for what was deemed a dive by Rashford-two decisions that have since become infamous for their rarity and questionable nature at the Champions League level.

Unpacking the Disputed Red Card Incident

The most hotly debated moment was the seemingly unjust dismissal of Santiago, who received two yellow cards in quick succession. According to the rules, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) is not authorized to intervene in cases of a second yellow card; VAR’s scope is limited to direct red cards, goals, and penalties. This restriction means that once a second yellow is issued, the referee’s decision should stand without VAR review. Yet, this protocol was not upheld consistently in this match.

Referee Urs Schnider’s History of Controversial Second Yellow Cards

This is not the first time Schnider’s handling of second yellow cards has provoked uproar. On September 17, during a Swiss Super League match between Lugano and Lausanne that ended 1-1, Schnider controversially overturned a second yellow card for Karim Sow of Lausanne after VAR intervention. The reversal was justified by an offside call, despite regulations clearly stating that VAR should not influence second yellow card decisions. This incident led Lugano to file an official protest with the Swiss Football Federation’s Disciplinary Committee, demanding a replay of the match.

Video Review of the Lugano vs Lausanne Incident

For a detailed look at the contentious moment, watch the clip starting at 2:33 in the highlights below:

Schnider’s Explanation and Team Reactions

Urs Schnider defended his decision by stating, “The VAR instructed me to review the incident. We also identified an offside position, which justified the final call. The correct decision must always be made after thorough review.”

Meanwhile, Lugano’s coach, Mattia Croci-Torti, expressed his frustration: “Accepting the referee’s decision is difficult. We have lodged an appeal and await the outcome. I doubt they will be allowed to revisit this decision. It’s the first time I’ve witnessed such a scenario. It’s unfortunate because we could have played 30 minutes with a numerical advantage.”

Jared Butler under consideration by Olympiacos
Jared Butler, a player currently evaluated by Olympiacos

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