La Liga stalls video review
The Spanish league is not going to rush implementing video-assistance review (VAR) even after the refereeing mistake that cost Barcelona a goal at the weekend. The mistake on Sunday in a 1-1 draw between league leader Barcelona and second-place Valencia reignited debate about La Liga being the only top league in Europe without a system to assist referees. But the league said yesterday it will keep its plans to implement VAR next season. The main reason for the delay in VAR’s introduction is because La Liga and the Spanish Football Federation must reach an agreement over the system to be used. The system also has to be approved by FIFA. Calls to install video review and goal-line technology only increased after Lionel Messi was denied a goal when his shot from outside the area clearly crossed the goal line. The match in Valencia was scoreless when Messi thought he’d scored in the first half at Mestalla Stadium. “Everybody saw it, except those who actually had to see it,” Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta said. “It was very clear. It’s a shame, because in these plays the technology would be ideal. I’m sure that those responsible are taking note so that it can be implemented and we can avoid these problems in clear situations like this, when there is no possible interpretation.” Goalkeeper Neto was unable to hold on to Messi’s shot and let the ball slip between his legs towards the goal. It bounced clearly over the line, but the linesman did not see it and let the play continue after Neto rushed back to swat the ball away.