VAR official who awarded controversial PSG penalty against Newcastle removed from Wednesday’s UCL game

The VAR official who awarded PSG a contentious penalty against Newcastle has been removed from Wednesday’s Champions League game.

The controversial penalty decision occurred in the dying minute of the match when a shot hit Tino Livramento’s chest before deflecting onto his arm.

Despite protests from Newcastle and initial reluctance from the on-field referee, VAR official identified as Tomasz Kwiatkowski instructed a review.

The review brought a reversal to the initial call, leading to Kylian Mbappe converting a penalty to secure a 1-1 draw for PSG.

The outcome of the match has since faced widespread criticism, with many labeling it as a “robbery.”

In response to the backlash, Kwiatkowski has been excluded from VAR duties for the upcoming Champions League fixture between Real Sociedad and RB Salzburg.

Gistreel earlier reported that Newcastle manager Eddie Howe expressed his disappointment after the match, stating, “I feel it is a poor decision and it’s hugely frustrating for us.”

The controversial call has left Newcastle’s qualification hopes for the next round hanging in the balance.