The Premier League has clarified why VAR reversed the decision to disallow Kai Havertz’s late goal for offside, ensuring Arsenal secured all three points against Leicester City.
In a match that was a rollercoaster ride for both teams, Arsenal entered the half time break with a two-goal lead, courtesy of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard. As such, they could have been excused for thinking it would be an easy afternoon against a winless Leicester.
However, the second half was far from straightforward. James Justin reduced the deficit just two minutes into the second half, and the full-back then found the back of the net again in the 63rd minute, his spectacular volley bringing the Foxes level at 2-2.
It seemed as though Leicester goalkeeper Mads Hermansen and his defensive line would frustrate Arsenal. However, corners proved crucial, with a 94th-minute corner deflecting off Wilfred Ndidi to send the Emirates Stadium into raptures and make the score 3-2.
Leicester made attacking substitutions in a final attempt to salvage something from the game. Arsenal capitalised in the 98th minute when Kai Havertz found an open goal, but the assistant referee’s flag halted celebrations, reports Football London.
Following a VAR review, the goal was given. The Premier League confirmed that the decision was overturned because the ball had been played by Justin.
The Premier League Match Centre on X (formerly Twitter) clarified the situation: “Havertz’s goal was disallowed for offside on-field. The VAR checked and confirmed that the ball was played to Havertz by the defender and recommended that the goal was awarded.”
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