Too wasteful and dependent on Mbappe, PSG get lucky with VAR

Penalty debate rages after late added-time equaliser denies Newcastle full points in Champions League

- Dhiman Sarkar

The penalty from Kylian Mbappe provided three lifelines and ruined Eddie Howe’s pre-birthday night. But for the equaliser, Paris St Germain (PSG) may not have progressed from the group stage of the Champions League. That in turn would have cast grave doubts on the future of Mbappe and manager Luis Enrique.

Tuesday’s 1-1 draw in Paris, Mbappe’s 98th-minute goal cancelling out Alexander Isak’s strike in the 24th minute, also means PSG stay in control of their destiny. Win against Borussia Dortmund, who have already qualified, and they will top Group F and make the Champions League knockouts for the 12th consecutive season. Newcastle play Milan in a must-win game for both but for either to advance, PSG cannot win in Germany.

Minutes away from doing the double on PSG, Howe said the penalty was “hugely frustrating”. Although Szymon Marciniak had booked PSG’s Goncalo Ramos for excessive appealing, Sky Sports quoted the Newcastle manager as saying there was “extreme” pressure from PSG players on the referee. “It wasn’t the right decision in my opinion,” said Howe who turned 46 on Wednesday.

“I don't dedicate myself to looking at VAR decisions. I am only dedicated to improving my team,” said Enrique.

The penalty was awarded after Ousmane Dembele’s shot ricocheted off Newcastle left back Tino Livramento’s torso and on to his left arm which was extended. Marciniak’s original decision was to let play continue but VAR referred him to the monitor. Which meant a clear and obvious error and forced Marciniak’s hand. Here’s why.