Schmeichel Says VAR Call vs Arsenal Was Wrong for West Ham

Peter Schmeichel strongly disagrees with the VAR decision that disallowed West Ham's late equalizer against Arsenal. He feels the call was incorrect and inconsistent with other decisions this season.
By Newsroom | Football, Premier League |

Former Manchester United and Manchester City goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has strongly criticized the VAR decision that disallowed West Ham's late equalizer against Arsenal on Sunday. Schmeichel asserted that the call was "so wrong on so many levels," questioning the consistency of such rulings throughout the season and the prolonged review process.

The disallowed goal, scored by Callum Wilson in stoppage time, would have secured a crucial point for West Ham in their battle against relegation. The decision handed Arsenal a pivotal 1-0 victory, potentially bolstering their league title aspirations.

Schmeichel's remarks highlight a broader controversy surrounding the VAR intervention. He stated, "When you look at the screen for five minutes, you'll find something." He further elaborated that such prolonged scrutiny injects doubt into any subsequent decision. "I just don’t understand why all of a sudden that’s a free-kick, because it’s not been for any teams all the way throughout the season," Schmeichel reportedly said. The former shot-stopper accused Arsenal of hypocrisy, suggesting they would not benefit from similar calls.

Read More: Liverpool Watches Monaco Player Akliouche Amidst Salah Exit Rumors

Peter Schmeichel lashes out at Arsenal VAR call against West Ham: ‘Wrong on so many levels’ - 1

The incident occurred when West Ham's Pablo challenged Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya as Raya attempted to claim a cross. While on-field officials initially allowed the goal, VAR initiated a lengthy review, ultimately concluding that Raya had been fouled, with Pablo's arm reportedly across the goalkeeper's neck.

Schmeichel's viewpoint stands in contrast to some interpretations, including that of Arsenal advocate Ian Wright, who, after reviewing replays, acknowledged that Pablo's arm was indeed across Raya's face. However, Schmeichel remains unconvinced, labeling the decision "crazy."

The controversial call has sparked debate among football figures, with former Manchester United teammate Roy Keane expressing a differing opinion. Keane suggested that a player should avoid making contact with the goalkeeper during such situations, particularly when VAR is likely to scrutinize the incident.

This VAR decision is being framed by some as a significant moment in the Premier League season, potentially shaping the outcome of both the title race and the relegation battle.

Read More: Crystal Palace's Eze and Olise Future: What Fans Need to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Peter Schmeichel say the VAR call against West Ham was wrong?
Peter Schmeichel believes the VAR decision to disallow West Ham's late equalizer against Arsenal on Sunday was wrong because it was inconsistent with other calls this season. He felt the review process was too long and the foul call was questionable.
Q: What was the VAR decision that Peter Schmeichel criticized?
The VAR decision was to disallow Callum Wilson's late goal for West Ham against Arsenal. The officials ruled that Pablo fouled Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya during the play, overturning the on-field decision.
Q: How did the VAR decision affect the Arsenal vs West Ham match on Sunday?
The VAR decision to disallow West Ham's goal meant Arsenal won the match 1-0. This result was crucial for Arsenal's title hopes and denied West Ham a point that could have helped their fight against relegation.
Q: What did Peter Schmeichel say about the VAR review process?
Schmeichel commented that when VAR officials look at a screen for five minutes, they will always find something to disallow a goal. He suggested this prolonged scrutiny injects doubt and leads to unfair decisions.