The 2026 FIFA World Cup's opening day saw 5 goals, 3 red cards, and controversy over VAR in Mexico's 2-0 win over South Africa, while South Korea staged a late comeback to beat Czechia 2-1.
Referee Michael Salisbury, who controversially allowed a goal for Manchester United against Nottingham Forest, has not been assigned any matches in the final round of Premier League fixtures. PGMOL admitted the goal should have been disallowed.
Premier League action saw Luke Shaw's strong form for Man Utd, VAR controversy in a match involving Bryan Mbeumo, Tottenham's fight for European qualification, Liverpool's struggles, Man City's FA Cup win, Chelsea's Wembley final woes, Leeds's impressive league run, Sunderland's comeback spirit, and Adam Wharton's standout performance for Crystal Palace.
A controversial VAR decision in a Scottish football match between Celtic and Motherwell sparks widespread criticism, highlighting the system's flaws and its detrimental impact on the fan experience, with calls for its removal.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot expressed frustration after a VAR decision went against his side in a 3-2 defeat at Manchester United, their 11th Premier League loss of the season. Benjamin Sesko's goal that put United 2-0 ahead was checked for handball but stood despite Liverpool's protests. Slot acknowledged his side must improve defensively, admitting they conceded 'ridiculous goals' while also criticising the pattern of VAR decisions going against Liverpool this season. Kobbie Mainoo's 77th-minute winner secured United's first league double over Liverpool since 2015-16.
Arsenal were eliminated from the Women's Champions League semi-finals by Lyon after a 3-2 aggregate defeat at Groupama Stadium. Jule Brand's late goal in the 89th minute, which survived a 3-minute-10-second VAR check, proved decisive. The goal came after Alessia Russo had equalised for Arsenal, who were outplayed by the eight-time champions across both legs.
A former Premier League referee analyzes a controversial VAR decision in the PSG vs Bayern Munich Champions League quarter-final, where a handball on Alphonso Davies led to a penalty despite the ball deflecting off his body first. The incident has sparked debate about inconsistent handball interpretations across competitions.
A VAR controversy in the Asian Champions League semi-final saw referee Shaun Evans escorted off the pitch by police after ruling out Shabab Al-Ahli's last-gasp equaliser against Machida Zelvia. The goal was disallowed because the UAE side restarted play with a throw-in while Machida were still making a substitution. Coach Paulo Sousa stormed down the tunnel before full-time and goalkeeper Hamad Al-Meqbaali was sent off after the final whistle. Machida will face Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli in the final on 25 April.
