UEFA’s stance on the controversial handball incident during Arsenal’s Champions League clash with Real Madrid has been revealed.
On Tuesday night, the Gunners hosted reigning European champions Madrid at the Emirates Stadium for the first leg of their quarter-final tie.
During the first half, Arsenal’s penalty appeal was waved away after Declan Rice’s shot struck Madrid defender Raul Asencio’s arm. Following a VAR review, official Bastian Dankert upheld the on-field decision, instructing the referee to continue play.
Commentating for Amazon Prime, former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg explained why the incident did not result in a penalty, highlighting UEFA’s differing handball regulations compared to the Premier League.
Clattenburg stated: “I’d be amazed if that’s given. The distance is extremely short, and he’s not deliberately making himself bigger.”
He further clarified: “UEFA has stricter handball criteria than the Premier League. If the arm is outstretched, UEFA would typically award a penalty, but I don’t believe this should be one.”
Former England defender Matt Upson, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, supported the officials’ decision.
“That is ridiculous. The cross from Gabriel Martinelli comes in, Declan Rice gets there first, and Asencio is just a yard away. Yes, it hits his hand, but it’s not a penalty,” Upson remarked.
Similarly, Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer shared his view on Amazon Prime, saying: “I’d be amazed if that was given. His arm is down—it’s not a penalty for me.”
In the second half, Arsenal took the lead through a stunning Declan Rice free kick.
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