São Paulo — The Palmeiras versus Sporting Cristal match in the 2026 Copa Libertadores has reignited debate over VAR decisions and on-field conduct, following the release of audio from the video assistant referee’s cabin by Conmebol. The audio confirms the penalty awarded to Palmeiras in the 78th minute, which led to Flaco López’s goal and secured a 2-1 victory for the Brazilian side.
According to the VAR audio released by Conmebol on April 17, 2026, VAR official Juan Lara instructed referee Piero Maza to review the incident involving Palmeiras winger Arthur and Sporting Cristal defender Cuenca. Lara stated, “Both running, but the one in green has the ball ahead, and the other touches from behind and makes him fall, in an imprudent manner.” After reviewing the footage, Maza confirmed the penalty, saying, “Perfect! Penalty without card.”
The incident occurred when Arthur attempted to control the ball in the penalty area and made contact with Cuenca. Initially, Maza did not signal a foul, but after VAR intervention, the decision was reversed. Conmebol’s released audio includes Lara stating, “The player in green has control and ends up being fouled. It seems he is taking the ball forward and the light blue player ends up fouling him,” to which another VAR official replied, “Yes, he ends up being brought down.”
The penalty converted by López proved decisive, as Palmeiras had trailed 1-0 earlier in the match. The win moved Palmeiras to four points in Group F, placing them at the top of the standings ahead of their next fixture against Cerro Porteño on April 29 in Paraguay.
Meanwhile, separate controversy surrounded Flamengo’s recent match, where a goal was scored amid allegations that the goalkeeper had used a mobile phone on the field prior to the play. While no official sanction has been confirmed, the incident has drawn criticism from former referees and analysts who cite FIFA’s Laws of the Game, which prohibit the use of electronic communication devices during matches.
Former referees consulted by Brazilian media outlets emphasized that any use of a phone by a player or team official constitutes a violation of Law 4, which governs players’ equipment, and could lead to disciplinary action if proven. However, no official report from match authorities has been released confirming disciplinary proceedings related to the Flamengo incident.
Analysts note that while VAR reviews are designed to correct clear and obvious errors, the interpretation of what constitutes an “imprudent” challenge remains subjective. In the Palmeiras case, the VAR team determined that Cuenca’s contact with Arthur, though not violent, was reckless enough to warrant a penalty under the protocol for careless or reckless tackles.
The Palmeiras squad is set to return to domestic competition with Brasileiro Série A matches against Athletico-PR and RB Bragantino before their Libertadores clash with Cerro Porteño. Flamengo, meanwhile, prepares for its next fixture in the Copa do Brasil first leg against Jacuipense.
As debates continue over technology in officiating and player conduct, both clubs remain focused on upcoming competitions, with Palmeiras aiming to maintain its early momentum in continental play.
Stay updated on the latest developments in South American football by following official league channels and verified match reports.
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