This archive report was first published on 16 August 2019.
On Wednesday, August 14, 2019, Liverpool won the UEFA Super Cup in Istanbul, defeating Chelsea 5-4 in a penalty shootout. However, the victory was marred by controversy surrounding a penalty save made by Liverpool goalkeeper Adrian.
Chelsea fans pointed out that Adrian failed to place either foot on the line during the penalty save, which should have resulted in the penalty being retaken. Despite this, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review upheld the original decision.
According to ESPN's Dale Johnson, UEFA's Chief Refereeing Officer, Roberto Rosetti, had briefed officials before the Super Cup that goalkeepers would only be penalized for leaving the goal line if it was a 'blatant' and 'clear' violation of the new law.
However, footage of the penalty save revealed that Adrian was indeed off his line before saving Tammy Abraham's crucial spot-kick. This has led to criticism of the confusing law changes, with some arguing that the previous law was clearer and more effective.
