This archive report was first published on 3 July 2019.
Argentina's Copa America campaign took a devastating turn on Tuesday as they fell 2-0 to Brazil in the semi-finals. The loss sparked controversy over the use of video technology, with Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero questioning why it was not consulted in two penalty appeals that were waved away.
The video assistant referee (VAR) system has been a key feature of the tournament, with CONMEBOL defending its use despite fan complaints about lengthy stoppages. However, on Tuesday, VAR was conspicuous by its absence, leaving Messi and Aguero fuming.
“Referees gave so many stupid fouls in this Copa America but today VAR wasn’t consulted once,” Messi told reporters. “This should be looked into and I hope CONMEBOL do something with these referees who unbalance the pitch by favouring a team.”
Argentina's players were left stunned by the lack of VAR intervention, particularly in the second half when Aguero appeared to be tripped by Dani Alves but no foul was given. Brazil immediately launched a counterattack, with Roberto Firmino doubling their advantage.
Argentina defender Juan Foyth was so stunned that a foul was not given that he did not rush back to halt a run by Gabriel Jesus, which led to the goal. Later in the game, defender Nicolas Otamendi went to the ground after tangling with Brazil’s Arthur at a corner, but Argentina’s appeals again proved futile.
“They told us that VAR would be like a fifth referee but when things turn out like this I’d rather it wasn’t there,” Aguero said. “I was running into the area and Alves stopped me with his foot, it was clear, so clear that Foyth stopped and waited for it to be given.”
