Dortmund Outraged After Late Penalty Claim Denied in Draw with Leipzig
Borussia Dortmund are furious after a late penalty appeal was denied during their 2-2 draw against RB Leipzig on Saturday, a decision that could significantly impact their Bundesliga title aspirations. The incident, involving BVB substitute Karim Adeyemi and RB defender Castello Lukeba in the 89th minute, has sparked widespread controversy.
Late Drama at the Red Bull Arena
Despite a late equalizer from Fabio Silva in the 95th minute securing a point for Dortmund, the focus after the match quickly turned to the non-call. Dortmund manager Niko Kovac and sporting director Sebastian Kehl both voiced their strong disagreement with the referee’s decision not to award a penalty.
Officials Under Fire
Kovac and the BVB bench vehemently protested the decision, urging referee Benjamin Brand to review the play at the pitch-side VAR screen. However, their pleas were ignored, with neither Brand nor the VAR team intervening.
There were a few situations that could be discussed,remarked Sebastian Kehl in the mixed zone.But for me, it’s mainly a penalty at the end. Lukeba doesn’t play the ball at all. It was clearly the wrong decision. Even after a few minutes of thinking and calming down, I still think it’s a clear penalty.Sebastian Kehl, Borussia Dortmund Sporting Director
Kovac Draws on Judo Experience
Niko Kovac offered a unique perspective on the incident, referencing his past training in Judo.
If I may say so, I was also a judoka [a judo practitioner] until I was 13 or 14,Kovac added.That’s a clear sickle sweep. I really don’t understand what they saw in the studio, but apparently the wrong thing.Niko Kovac, Borussia Dortmund Manager
Kovac further stated, Of course Karim puts his foot out there, but he [Lukeba] doesn’t even hit the ball.
VAR Criticism
Kovac also questioned the VAR’s inaction, suggesting a reluctance to overturn on-field decisions. And I don’t understand why no action was taken [by the VAR team],
he continued. Probably because they don’t want to overrule too much. Because if you overrule too much, it looks stupid, of course.
What’s Next for Dortmund?
The dropped points in Leipzig may prove costly for Dortmund in their pursuit of the Bundesliga title. The controversy surrounding the penalty decision is sure to linger, adding fuel to the fire as the season progresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened in the 89th minute? Karim Adeyemi was challenged by Castello Lukeba in the penalty area, and Dortmund appealed for a penalty, which was not awarded.
- Did VAR review the incident? No, VAR did not intervene.
- What did Niko Kovac say about the incident? Kovac described the challenge as a
clear sickle sweep
and questioned why VAR didn’t review the play.
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