VAR Malfunction Overshadows Rayo Vallecano vs Barcelona Match
In a frustrating twist during their face-off against Barcelona this past Sunday, Rayo Vallecano experienced a VAR malfunction that overshadowed an otherwise closely contested match. The game ended with a score of 1-1 at the Estadio de Vallecas, but the visitors’ Lamine Yamal found the net from a penalty awarded in the first half that left many Rayo players fuming.
Controversial Penalty Decision
The incident unfolded when Yamal was deemed to have been fouled by Pep Chavarría, leading to a controversial penalty conversion in the 40th minute.
Technical Issues with VAR
However, the aftermath was marred by a significant VAR oversight, as MEDIAPRO, responsible for the technology in LaLiga, acknowledged a “technical problem” that rendered the VAR system inoperable during the match’s first half. A statement from the company confirmed that they could not identify the cause of the issue, which ultimately disrupted the game’s flow and fairness.
“Despite efforts from our technical team, we were unable to restore VAR service in the first half. It functioned normally during the second half,” the statement read, with MEDIAPRO committing to investigating the root of the malfunction.
Coaches and Players React
In the wake of the fierce contention surrounding the penalty call, Rayo’s coach, Iñigo Pérez, voiced his frustration, admitting his reaction on the sidelines stemmed from pent-up emotions surrounding the incident.
“I regret my behavior during the penalty scene. It’s part of the game, as referees can err. However, it’s troubling that the players were subjected to the unpredictability of VAR, alternating between having it and not,” Pérez remarked to DAZN post-game.
He suggested that a reevaluation of protocols is necessary for times when VAR fails, indicating that matches should be paused until the technology is operational again.
Referee Acknowledges Mistake
Rayo’s frustration deepened as Mateo Busquets Ferrer, the referee, reportedly conceded to players after the game that the penalty decision was incorrect, prompting Rayo forward Isi to express his annoyance.
“It’s infuriating to concede a penalty when it shouldn’t have been given. The referee acknowledged it was a mistake, which is commendable,” said Isi, underscoring the human element of refereeing without the aid of VAR.
Rayo Vallecano’s Resilience
Despite the setback of conceding Yamal’s penalty, Rayo Vallecano showcased resilience by securing an equalizer when Fran Pérez scored his debut goal for the club in the second half, ensuring that the match ended all square against one of Spain’s formidable teams, Barcelona.
