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      VAR could be SCRAPPED next season with Premier League sides to vote on change after club files motion

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      PREMIER LEAGUE clubs could scrap VAR from the start of next season.Top-flight sides are set to vote on whether or not to continue using the video assistants following a complaint from Wolves.Premier League clubs are set to vote on whether to scrap VARCredit: AFPAccording to The Athletic, the club have formally submitted a resolution to the Premier League calling for VAR to be scrapped.In doing so, Wolves have triggered a vote from the 20 clubs on June 6.A statement from Wolves reads: “There is no blame to be placed — we are all just looking for the best possible outcome for football — and all stakeholders have been working hard to try and make the introduction of additional technology a success.”However, after five seasons of VAR in the Premier League, it is time for a constructive and critical debate on its future.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”Our position is that the price we are paying for a small increase in accuracy is at odds with the spirit of our game, and as a result we should remove it from the 2024/25 season onwards.”The club added that they accept the decision to introduce VAR was “made in good faith” and “with the best interests of football and the Premier League at its heart”.However, they now argue the practice has caused “numerous negative consequences”.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWolves also claim those consequences are “damaging the relationship between fans and football” as well as “undermining the value of the Premier League brand”.Most read in FootballMeanwhile, a spokesperson for the Premier League said: “The Premier League can confirm it will facilitate a discussion on VAR with our clubs at the annual general meeting next month.Most dramatic Premier League’s final days”Clubs are entitled to put forward proposals at shareholders’ meetings and we acknowledge the concerns and issues around the use of VAR.”However, the league fully supports the use of VAR and remains committed, alongside PGMOL, to make continued improvements to the system for the benefit of the game and fans.”VAR was introduced in the Premier League from the start of the 2019/20 season, though.The current campaign has seen multiple flashpoints caused by the use of video assistant referees, though.Wolves’ VAR complaintsWolves have listed nine negative repercussions from the introduction of VAR in their complaint.

      Impact on goal celebrations and the spontaneous passion that makes football special
      Frustration and confusion inside stadiums due to lengthy VAR checks and poor communication
      A more hostile atmosphere with protests, booing of the Premier League anthem and chants against VAR
      Overreach of VAR’s original purpose to correct clear and obvious mistakes, now overanalysing subjective decisions and compromising the game’s fluidity and integrity
      Diminished accountability of on-field officials, due to the safety net of VAR, leading to an erosion of authority on the pitch
      Continued errors despite VAR, with supporters unable to accept human error after multiple views and replays, damaging confidence in officiating standards
      Disruption of the Premier League’s fast pace with lengthy VAR checks and more added time, causing matches to run excessively long
      Constant discourse about VAR decisions often overshadowing the match itself, and tarnishing the reputation of the league
      Erosion of trust and reputation, with VAR fuelling completely nonsensical allegations of corruption

      Liverpool wrongly had a goal disallowed in their controversial loss to Tottenham in September.Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest have written letters of complaint to the PGMOL.Forest even publicly questioned the appointment of VAR Stuart Attwell after their defeat to Everton last month.Clubs in Sweden recently voted against introducing VAR to the country’s top-flight. More

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      Bournemouth’s Dominic Solanke unveils bizarre mask for new celebration only for goal to get ruled out by VAR

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      DOMINIC SOLANKE unveiled a new celebration against Brentford only for his goal to be disallowed.The Bournemouth striker thought he had opened the scoring at the Vitality Stadium.Dominic Solanke unveiled a bizarre mask for his new goal celebrationCredit: RexHis strike for Bournemouth against Brentford was ruled out by VAR, thoughCredit: GettyHowever, his strike was ruled out following a VAR review for a handball by Antoine Semenyo.As well as keeping the match goalless, it also ruined Solanke’s new goal celebration.The forward had whipped out a bizarre mask after finding the back of the net for the Cherries.He donned an orange spiral mask in reference to anime character Obio Uchiha.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe character is a popular figure in the manga and anime series Naruto.Solanke has previously spoken of his love of anime and even recreated poses from his favourite series in his goal celebrations.Asked if anime has influenced his style of play, he told Football Focus last month: “You could say mindset a bit because it’s just so, like, relentless, so many stories that the characters just not giving up.”It’s actually always nice to think back to those characters and what they’ve gone through and how hard they worked.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSDespite his disallowed goal against Brentford, Solanke has been in fine form this season.The 26-year-old has already scored 18 goals in the Premier League so far this term.Most dramatic Premier League’s final daysHis tally has only been bettered by two other English players, Ollie Watkins and Cole Plamer.Meanwhile, Solanke has scored three times more than his previous best return, six goals for Bournemouth last season. More

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      Watch never-before-seen Premier League ‘RefCam’ footage of Crystal Palace’s 4-0 demolition of Man Utd

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      DRAMATIC first-ever “RefCam” footage of a Premier League game has been released – from Manchester United’s 4-0 rout at Crystal Palace.Whistler Jarred Gillett is heard yelling his verdict over a penalty appeal and checking with VAR – after Prem chiefs got special permission to use the extra camera.In a Premier League first, referee Jarred Gillett wore a “RefCam” during Palace v Man Utd.The use of ‘RefCam’ was a one-off which had the full permission off The IFAB. The filming will form part of an educational programme highlighting the important role of the referee. pic.twitter.com/CPF2HbMQOT— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 10, 2024

      Jarred Gillett was close at hand to see this penalty claimCredit: Sky SportsGillett was seen exchanging words with players before the matchCredit: Sky SportsThe interaction with VAR went smoothlyThe unique clip is part of an educational programme designed to “offer further insight and education into the demands of officiating”.And it certainly highlighted the extraordinary intensity of the Prem as well as the pressure refs are under.Gillett and his jerky RefCam had a great view as Tyrick Mitchell surged into the United box.The Palace full-back went down as Red Devils’ central defender Jonny Evans stepped across to block him.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLGillett could then be heard instantly shouting “No, no, no way, no!” as he-rejected any claims for a spot-kick.The Australian ref, 27, added: “He’s run into him, for me. The attacker has run into Evans, for me. That’s how I read it.”Next, the video assistant ref stepped in to say: “Checking possible penalty”.And after a brief exchange with Gillett while replays were shown, VAR and the man in the middle agreed the on-field decision was correct – with play carrying on smoothly.Most read in FootballPlay carried on while VAR chatted to GillettBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe whistler was earlier seen shaking hands and exchanging “all the best” greetings with players and mascots before last Monday’s match started.He could be seen acknowledging stars like United striker Rasmus Hojlund and Palace hero Michael Olise on first-name terms.Man United manager Erik ten Hag previews huge Premier League clash vs ArsenalBut in a season littered with VAR controversies, it’s the raw, fast-paced interaction of the penalty incident that spotlighted the real point of the video – the huge demands on elite-level referees.The Prem will use the scenes as part of an educational package to be broadcast later this year.The International Football Association Board gave top-flight chiefs the all-clear to deploy the headcam as a one-off.The Prem said: “We would like to thank Crystal Palace and Manchester United for their support with this project.”Gillett was heard greeting players like Rasmus Hojlund on first-name termsPlayers looked relaxed as they shook hands with GillettSunSport’s verdict on Man Utd flopsSir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos have a busy summer ahead to get Man Utd’s squad in order for next season. Below SunSport gives it verdict on how they should deal with the Red Devils flops this summer.
      Andre Onana – STAY: After a dodgy start at Old Trafford Onana has proven to be one of the more reliable members of the squad this season despite being peppered with shots constantly.
      Altay Bayindir – GO: Reports in February suggested Bayindir was unhappy with his bit part role at Man Utd amid interest from Turkish giants Galatasaray. If profit can be made on a sale then it should be done.
      Tom Heaton – STAY: Veteran goalkeeper Heaton, 38, is a reliable back-up and is on a relatively small wage at the club. So long as he is happy it makes sense to keep him.
      Aaron Wan-Bissaka – GO: Wan-Bissaka, 26, has never managed to make the right-back position his own. With his contract up in 2025 it makes sense to cash in now.
      Diogo Dalot – STAY: Dalot, 26, has been one of Man Utd’s most consistent performers this season.
      Raphael Varane – GO: If it wasn’t for his injury record there would be a strong shout to keep Varane, but costs need to be cut to allow the squad to be freshened up.
      Harry Maguire – GO: Maguire has showed he has the right character to be at Man Utd but overall ability and desired profile are another matter, with Maguire too slow to play in a high line defence.
      Lisandro Martinez – STAY: Martinez, 26, is second to none in terms of build up play. He needs a long-term defensive partner on the right side and to cut out the injuries which have plagued him this season.
      Jonny Evans – GO: Veteran campaigner Evans could easily be on the stay list if he was only going to be a bit part player. But he has shown his advanced years at times this season.
      Victor Lindelof – GO:  Lindelof, 29, has been reliable if not unremarkable in his Man Utd career. He has one year left on his contract so should be moved on if a decent transfer fee can be got for him.
      Willy Kambwala – STAY: He should be given the opportunity to mature for a few years behind a senior CB pairing before stepping into the first team as a starter or being moved on.
      Luke Shaw – GO: One of the Premier League’s best left-backs when fit, Shaw has been a good servant when available. But alas that has been his Achilles heel once again this season.
      Tyrell Malacia – STAY: Malacia, 24, was decent enough to earn some merit in his first season at Man Utd before injury ended his season and inadvertently led to his second season being a write off.
      Sofyan Amrabat – GO: Amrabat, 27, looked like a world beater at the Qatar World Cup with Morocco. But he’s had an underwhelming season in England and his loan spell will almost certainly not be made permanent.
      Casemiro – GO: An alarming physical decline has seen him turn from key star to burden. If a club is willing to buy the 32-year-old – who has two more years on his contract – then United should snatch their hand off.
      Christian Eriksen – GO: Eriksen proved a useful asset and Ineos should look to bring in another player with similar traits, but frankly his legs have looked gone towards the end of this season.
      Kobbie Mainoo – STAY: The first of the so-called untouchables, Mainoo has been a rare glimmer of hope in the Red Devils midfield this season.
      Mason Mount – STAY: Mount can be given the benefit of the doubt until summer 2025 at least after a debut season riddled with injury.
      Scott McTominay – STAY: McTominay, 27, has proven himself to be a brilliant plan B off the bench this season, and that is exactly why Ineos should look to keep him.
      Bruno Fernandes – STAY: Man Utd’s best player since his arrival just over four years ago, Fernandes, 29, remains second-to-none when it comes to creating chances while his tenacity boosts those around him.
      Antony – GO: There’s a case to argue that Antony may be the worst pound-for-pound signing in Premier League history. Despite some memorable moments he simply isn’t Man Utd quality.
      Anthony Martial – GO: Ultimately Martial needs to be let go when his deal runs out this summer after an appalling injury record of late.
      Marcus Rashford – STAY: As easy as it would be to say Rashford should leave the club this summer, it is difficult to look at the market and find many available players capable of scoring 30 goals a season.
      Alejandro Garnacho – STAY: Another third of the untouchables trio, Garnacho has made the right-wing his own since coming into it. He’s a raw talent but has shown he has the quality to improve.
      Rasmus Hojlund – STAY: A slow burner in his first Man Utd season, the 21-year-old has often been starved of supply which has led to him being unable to get the goals his movement and unselfish play often merits.
      Amad Diallo – STAY: In the fleeting moments he has been on the pitch for Man Utd this season, Diallo has looked dangerous and exciting. He should be given a chance to flourish with some proper chances in the first team across a whole season.

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      Forgotten ex-England and Premier League star, 33, unrecognisable with top knot as he’s sent off using new VAR protocol

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      A FORMER Premier League star was sent off following a VAR trial in Australia this week.The 33-year-old defender was playing for Sydney FC in an A-League match against Central Coast Mariners when a high challenge was reviewed by the referee.A former Premier League defender was sent off in a unique VAR check this weekCredit: GettyThe referee addressed the crowd and players before brandishing the red cardCredit: GettyAfter visiting the pitchside monitor, as part of a trial, the official addressed both the players AND the crowd to explain his decision and how he came to it.The whistler said: “After review, contact was above the ankle, studs to the shin, it is a red card.”Fans took to social media to react to the unique VAR protocol, with some suggesting it should be brought into the Premier League.However, others were more in disbelief after realising who the player was who’d been given their marching orders.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFormer Manchester City, Everton and Sunderland star Jack Rodwell saw red after making the high challenge.But some fans struggled to recognise him due to his dramatic hairstyle change.The defender is now sporting a top knot – completely different to the shaved look from his Man City and Sunderland days.Rodwell kicked off his career with Everton back in 2007 after coming through the club’s academy.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSJack Rodwell was the man sent off for SydneyCredit: Paramount+The ex-Man City star is now sporting a new lookCredit: GettyRodwell formerly played for Man CityCredit: Getty Images – GettyRodwell’s career path

      Everton (2007-12)
      Rodwell came through Everton’s academy before makign 109 senior appearances for the club. He was heavily praised by then-manager David Moyes after breaking into the first team.
      Man City (2012-14)
      The defender joined City in a £12million transfer from Everton in 2012. He made his debut just a few weeks later but quickly fell down the pecking order after suffering an injury. He was then limited to just 25 appearances. He did, however, win the Premier League and a League Cup with the Cityzens.
      Sunderland (2014-18)
      Rodwell’s time at Sunderland coincided with the club’s back-to-back relegations from the Premier League, meaning he received some heavy criticism from fans. Recalling the latter stages of his time with the club, Rodwell said: “I was in the process of getting thrown under the bus for being in the building. Everyone inside the club will tell you I wasn’t a bad lad. I did everything that was asked of me and more whereas other players wouldn’t have.”
      Blackburn Rovers (2018-19)
      The former England star was limited to just 22 appearances for Blackburn. He left at the end of his contract despite being offered a new deal.
      Sheffield United (2020-21)
      A month after beginning to train with the team, Rodwell officially joined Sheffield United. However, his arrival coincided with the coronavirus pandemic meaning he made just two appearances before being released.
      Western Sydney Wanderers (2021-22)
      Speaking upon his arrival at the club, Rodwell told The Athletic: “I’m here to win trophies and play in the AFC Champions League. I’m not coming here to take it easy. I want to be the best player in the league.”
      He went on to make 14 appearances.
      Sydney FC (2022-Now)
      Rodwell joined Sydney FC on a two-year deal in 2022 and has since made 24 appearances.

      He went on to make 109 senior appearances for the Toffees, scoring eight goals.In 2007 he joined Man City and spent two years at the Etihad, making 25 appearances across all competitions.Huge changes being made to English football schedule next seasonThe centre-back then joined Sunderland and spent four years at the club before joining Blackburn Rovers.His final season in England was spent with Sheffield United, but he was limited to just two appearances in 18 months.Rodwell then moved to Australia to join Western Sydney Wanderers for a year.He made a gradual return to first team football before then transferring to Sydney FC in 2022.Rodwell was capped three times by England earlier in his career.His senior debut for the Three Lions came in November 2011.England’s starting XI on Rodwell’s debut – the defender replaced Phil Jones More

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      Watch moment Antonio Rudiger KISSES VAR monitor after Real Madrid controversially scrape into Champions League final

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      THIS is the moment Antonio Rudiger kisses the VAR monitor following Real Madrid’s controversial win over Bayern Munich.Los Blancos set up a Champions League final clash against Borussia Dortmund at Wembley with a dramatic 2-1 win on Wednesday.Antonio Rudiger kissed the VAR monitor after Real Madrid’s Champions League win over Bayern MunichCredit: XBayern were left raging after having a late equaliser controversially ruled outCredit: XBayern went ahead with 20 minutes left thanks to an audacious strike from Alphonso Davies.But after Thomas Tuchel went to a back five while taking off Leroy Sane, Jamal Musiala and Harry Kane, Real struck back.Sub Joselu scored goals in the 88th and 91st minutes to turn the tie on its head and put Real on the cusp of a 15th European title.However, Bayern were left raging at the final whistle following a controversial moment at the death.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAs the clock raced on during injury time, Matthijs de Ligt ended up putting the ball in the back of Real’s net for 2-2.Bizarrely, the linesman had already raised his flag for an offside moments before, technically bringing play to an end.But replays suggested Bayern may not have been offside, and the linesman should never have raised his flag either until the phase of play had been completed.Because of his actions, VAR refused to intervene as Bayern went beserk.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd some fans even accused Uefa of a “fix”, with Thomas Tuchel claiming the decision – and that of the referee to blow when the linesman flagged – was “disastrous.”But Real star Rudiger appeared to be delighted with how things panned out.Watch Antonio Rudiger bring back iconic Chelsea chair celebration in wild scenes after Real Madrid win vs Bayern MunichAt the final whistle, he celebrated with fans by grabbing a chair to bring back memories of his Chelsea days.And in a move which is sure to enrage Bayern, Rudiger then went over to the VAR monitor before planting a big kiss on it.Speaking afterwards, Bayern boss Tuchel lashed out at VAR and the linesman for their decision not to give the goal.He said: “There are two mistakes. The first big mistake is from the linesman. “He raised his flag straight away; to raise your flag in a situation like this, you have to be very, very sure it’s offside. “To have the guts, the balls, to raise the flag like this is a huge, huge call, and it is the wrong call. “We got the shot away within five seconds [of the flag] and the referee has the chance not to whistle, but he whistles. It is against every rule.”READ MORE SUN STORIESHowever, Real boss Carlo Ancelotti reckons it was the right decision.Referring to his side’s earlier disallowed goal following a clear foul by Nacho on Joshua Kimmich, he said: “If they can complain about that we can complain about the goal Nacho had disallowed.”Bayern had a late goal disallowed for this apparent offside More

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      Real Madrid break protocol in huge Bayern clash as TNT Sports commentator says ‘I thought there was a rule against this’

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      REAL MADRID broke protocol during their Champions League clash with Bayern Munich.The two sides met at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday night in their semi-final second leg.Real Madrid broke protocol during their Champions League clash with Bayern MunichCredit: TNT SportsThe hosts had a goal ruled out by VAR for a foul on Joshua KimmichCredit: TNT SportsReal Madrid came from behind to book their place in next month’s final at Wembley Stadium against Borussia Dortmund.However, they were made to wait for their equaliser after having a goal disallowed by VAR.The Spanish giants thought they had levelled the score after a corner routine deflected in off Bayern scorer Alphonso Davies.Referee Szymon Marciniak was sent to the screen, though, before ruling the goal out for a foul on Joshua Kimmich.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNacho Fernandez had shoved the full-back to the floor before prodding the ball towards goal.During the VAR review, replays of the incident were shown on the big screen inside the stadium.This breached IFAB protocol, however, with TNT Sports commentator Darren Fletcher stating: “I thought there was some sort of rule against that happening,” after spotting the replays were being displayed.Football lawmakers IFAB announced last summer that VAR replays must not be shown inside stadiums until the match officials have made their decision.Most read in Champions LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSecretary Lukas Brud told Sky Sports News: “We have to protect referees.”We want to avoid referees feeling pressured or influenced by players, managers or fans as they are in the process of making a decision.Moment riot cop hits fan with baton as police and supporters clash in Madrid ahead of Real’s clash with Bayern Munich”We do not allow decision-making footage to be shown while it is under consideration.”The incident came after the officials had earlier missed a second ball on the pitch as Real Madrid almost scored.Fans were left confused after Los Blancos took a throw-in with another ball already on the pitch.There was also further VAR drama as Real completed a dramatic late turnaround.Joselu capitalised on a mistake from Manuel Neuer to equalise in the 88th minute.His winning goal three minutes later was then awarded by VAR after the on-field offside decision was overturned upon review.Replays were shown inside the stadium during Szymon Marciniak’s VAR reviewCredit: TNT SportsIFAB rules prevent VAR replays from being shown before the decision is madeCredit: Getty More

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      Inside Ipswich’s multi-million pound Premier League plan with ‘non-negotiable changes’ and ‘hell of a lot to do’

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      IPSWICH TOWN are set to splash out “several million pounds” after earning Premier League promotion.The Suffolk side were automatically promoted to the top flight after securing 96 points in a remarkable 90-goal Championship campaign.Ipswich’s Kayden Jackson led the celebrations after his club earned back-to-back promotionsCredit: RexBut the club are set to spend millions in order to host Prem football next yearCredit: PAVAR will need to be installed at Portman Road ahead of it’s return to the PremCredit: Getty Images – GettyIt will be the first time in 22 years that the Tractor Boys will be in the top tier after Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Huddersfield, who were relegated to League One.But chief executive Mark Ashton said there was “a hell of a lot of work to do” to ensure the club’s facilities met league standards.He said a planning application for a “big build” at the Playford Road training ground was to be submitted imminently.It followed Premier League officials visiting the club in January and handing over a list of work that would need to be done if Kieran McKenna’s side were promoted.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSRegulations show all top-flight teams need to have installed goal-line technology in order to compete.They must also facilitate the installation of equipment that would enable the use of video assistant refereeing.Ashton told BBC Radio Suffolk: “There’s several million pounds worth of works to do.”That’s going to mean some quite big infrastructure changes at Portman Road over the summer.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe 52-year-old said builders had already been on site at Playford Road to plan the impending improvements.He added: It’s going to see some changes, it’s things we have to do that are non-negotiable from the Premier League.EXCLUSIVE: Kieran McKenna addresses his Ipswich future, what he learned from Jose Mourinho and wanting Premier League football”Once I’ve had time to breathe, I’ll talk to the fans so they know what’s going on.”But Ipswich’s promotion will bring millions to the area.Terry Baxter, who represents local businesses in Ipswich Central Business Improvement District, said the financial and emotional benefits will be “massive”.He told ITV: “We’re talking about somewhere between £500 and £600 million worth of economic benefit to the area and that’s huge for a town like Ipswich.”Similarly, Luton Town had to splash out similar amounts of cash after they were promoted to the Premier League following last season’s play-off final victory over Coventry.The Hatters were forced into paying out £10m on a new stand to meet the league’s broadcast requirements at Kenilworth Road.READ MORE SUN STORIESMuch was made of their historic home – particularly the away end that requires fans to walk over local residents’ back gardens.However, Ipswich will likely not have to fork out as much, given that their tier structures do meet the standards, after the Sir Alf Ramsey was rebuilt in 2001, and Sir Bobby Robson stand in 2009.Luton were forced into delaying home fixtures this seasonStairs lead up to the Oak Stand, running above residents’ gardens More

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      Astonishing moment referee ignores VAR and REFUSES to send players off for two-footed tackle and punch in face

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      THIS is the astonishing moment a referee ignored VAR’s recommendation and refused to send players off following chaos on the pitch.Uruguayan giants Nacional and Argentine aces River Plate played out a fiery Copa Libertadores group stage game on Tuesday night.A ref failed to produce a red card for a shocking tackle during a fiery South American matchCredit: FOX Sports via X formerly TwitterThe official also ignored VAR regarding a clear punch to the face during a mass brawlCredit: FOX Sports via X formerly TwitterVisitors River took a 2-0 lead in the first half but were pegged back late on by two goals in as many minutes from Nacional’s Gonzalo Carneiro.However, things could have turned out differently had the referee opted to show several red cards earlier in the match.With River ahead 2-0 early in the second half, chaos reigned when Nacional’ player’s Leandro Lozano launched an outrageous two-footed lunge on an opponent.The naughty footballer left the floor as he walloped the River star, who cried out in pain from the resulting challenge.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThis sparked a massive on-field melee between stars from both sides, with plenty of pushing and shoving.It quickly escalated as several punches were thrown, with footage showing River’s Paulo Diaz being punched in the face by Franco Romero of Nacional.And VAR quickly interjected to tell the ref to look at the pitch-side monitor for a potential two red cards.The official took his time on the sideline, watching several replays of the tackle and resulting brawl.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHowever, in incredible scenes, Brazilian referee Anderson Daronco opted not to send anybody off.Instead, he dished out several yellows to keep the wild flow of the game going.River Plate to be punished after fans shot SEA FLARES and Boca Juniors players had to leave under riot police shields River were left fuming that Nacional escaped red cards in the Copa Libertadores gameCredit: FOX Sports via X formerly TwitterNacional kept all their players on the pitch before sealing a 2-2 comebackCredit: FOX Sports via X formerly TwitterUnlike in Europe, South American continental tournaments release VAR audio footage of key incidents after the match.And this was done by Conmebol for the Nacional vs River Plate incident (Portuguese with Spanish subtitles).The footage shows that Daronco felt that excessive force was used by Lozano in the two-footed tackle, but as the player got the ball it was only worthy of a yellow card.The official was then heard asking for the real-time rather than slow-motion footage of the brawl which saw Romero punch Diaz in the face.After being given the footage, he concluded that this incident was also only worthy of a yellow card.But despite recommending two potential red cards, there was also criticism of the VAR team.That’s because the referee was greeted with complete silence when he informed them that he was going to give two yellow cards, when normally the VAR team would be expected to respond.River fans were not happy at all, especially as the lack of serious action eventually led to Nacional rescuing a draw.One said: “A shame due to the refereeing errors.”Another declared: “That’s a red card.”READ MORE SUN STORIESOne noted: “The tackle and the punch were red, these errors cannot just remain like this.”Another added: “Everything is against us, they robbed us with VAR showing everything.” More