Argentina vs Brazil: Referee and VAR official suspended indefinitely over Raphinha error
The Leeds winger needed treatment after he clashed with former Manchester City defender Nicolas Otamendi
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The referee and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) who officiated in Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier between Brazil and Argentina have been suspended for “serious errors”, the South American soccer governing body Conmebol said.
An incident in the goalless draw where Argentine defender Nicolas Otamendi appeared to elbow Raphinha -- which left the Brazilian winger with a bloody mouth -- went unpunished and Conmebol said the use of his arm amounted to “violent conduct”.
Brazil coach Tite was left fuming and he angrily hit out at what he said was an “inconceivable” decision by the VAR, saying it was “impossible” for VAR not to see Otamendi’s elbow on Raphinha.
“The performance of chief referee Andres Ismael Cunha Soca Vargas and VAR Esteban Daniel Ostojich Vega... were technically analysed... concluding that they committed serious and manifest errors,” Conmebol said in a statement.
Conmebol added the two officials have been suspended for “an indefinite period”.
The 0-0 draw allowed Argentina to join Brazil in sealing qualification for the World Cup in Qatar next year.
Reuters
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments