In a crucial match between Liverpool and Arsenal, a significant moment unfolded that left both Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher puzzled on behalf of Liverpool. The incident involved Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard and a potential handball that went unnoticed by the match officials.
Despite Gabriel Magalhaes giving Arsenal an early lead with a header from Odegaard’s free-kick, the Norwegian midfielder became the center of controversy midway through the first half.
As Mohamed Salah attempted a flick-on, the ball hit Odegaard’s hand, appearing to be a clear situation warranting a penalty. Referee Chris Kavanagh missed the handball, allowing Arsenal to initiate a counter-attack. Despite VAR involvement by David Coote, the decision not to award Liverpool a penalty remained, prompting Neville, even as a former Manchester United defender, to note Odegaard’s fortunate situation.
At halftime, Sky Sports disclosed the official explanation from PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited), indicating that the incident did not meet the criteria of “not a clear and obvious error as Odegaard’s arm is moving towards the body and not the ball as he goes down.” This was explained by Odegaard’s arm reportedly moving towards his body rather than the ball as he fell.
Despite the contentious decision, Liverpool made a comeback before halftime, with Salah scoring an exceptional individual goal in the 29th minute, setting the stage for an important second half in this high-stakes clash.
WATCH THE MOMENT WHEN ODEGAARD TOUCHES THE BALL WITH HIS HAND IN ARSENAL’S PENALTY AREA BELOW:
https://x.com/LFCTransferRoom/status/1738619893111554210?s=20
