VAR luck for Bayern? After a supposedly “clear hand ball” from Sadio Mané, referee Ivan Kruzliak decided not to use a penalty for Inter Milan. While the scene is hotly debated online, there is an explanation as to why Kruzliak’s decision is correct.
In the 8th minute, Inter midfielder Barella launched a long-range shot from almost 20 meters. Mané reflexively threw his hands up, shielding his face and deflecting the ball to the corner. The VAR responded promptly and referee Ivan Kruzliak looked at the scene several times in the review area and ultimately did not award a penalty.
Although there is no such thing as a protective hand in football, Kruzliak’s decision is correct. A tweet from February this year from the International Football Association Board (IFAB), an international body for football rules, provides the explanation: Since Mané’s movement was a “natural reflex” which was not intended to increase the body area led, it was/is not a punishable handball by the Senegalese.
Questions & Answers: HANDBALL OFFENCE?
An attacker takes a powerful shot on goal. A defender who is very close puts their hands in front of their face as a reflex action to protect their face and the ball hits their hands.
What is the correct decision?https://t.co/HWpcjeJ0EM pic.twitter.com/5TeHDRwQxn
— The IFAB (@TheIFAB) February 21, 2022
