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VAR has caused a rift among players at the World Cup

By David Ezeobinwa

SAMARA, RUSSIA - JUNE 28: The big screen inside the staduim informs fans of a VAR review in consideration, after referee Milorad Mazic awards Senegal a penalty, which he then rescinds after looking at the VAR footage during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group H match between Senegal and Colombia at Samara Arena on June 28, 2018 in Samara, Russia. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
SAMARA, RUSSIA - JUNE 28: The big screen inside the staduim informs fans of a VAR review in consideration, after referee Milorad Mazic awards Senegal a penalty, which he then rescinds after looking at the VAR footage during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group H match between Senegal and Colombia at Samara Arena on June 28, 2018 in Samara, Russia. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images) /
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VAR is the use of a video assistant referee to help make decisions during a match. The 2018 World Cup being the first major tournament to implement it.

Football is an emotional sport. Players want to win for their country and carry plenty of pride when they step onto the pitch. Referee decisions heavily influence the outcome of matches as well.

VAR made its first appearance in the World Cup on June 16th. France was playing Australia, when VAR had to be used to make the decision for a penalty. France benefited from the video review and it helped them win the match.

For instance, one player that had much to say about the video assistance was Moroccan international, Nordin Amrabat.

He expressed his concerns after Morocco’s match with Spain. An Iago Aspas goal that was initially ruled offside was then overturned. In turn, this helped Spain salvage a point in a 2-2 draw.

He expressed his feelings in the statement below. Even going as far as calling VAR ‘bullsh*t’.

"“If you don’t use it (VAR) every time then it doesn’t work”“If you don’t use it (VAR) every time then it doesn’t work”"

In contrast, other players feel that video assistance is positive. Belgium player, Marouane Fellaini, feels that it’s beneficial to the game. He praised VAR for its accuracy on checking mistakes in the box as well as penalties and free kicks.

Other players like Phillipe Coutinho, understand the power that VAR holds. He understands that it changes they way players react to calls and other decisions.

Coutinho expressed his sentiments below.

"“You may end up harming yourself and the team. That’s not what people want. You may end up getting a yellow card.”“You may end up harming yourself and the team. That’s not what people want. You may end up getting a yellow card.”"

Furthermore you would have to agree with Fellaini’s comments. Without video assistance, referee decisions were at a 95% accuracy rating. Following the introduction of VAR, we now see a 99.3% accuracy rating. Evidence is pointing to how useful it has become to the game.

Additionally, questions have been raised towards how it affects the speed of the game and it’s appeal. Premier League athlete, Bolasie, felt that video assistance would slow down the game but he understand its purpose.

Raheem Sterling thinks that it adds more excitement to the game due to the fact that fans have to guess which way the call will go. This adds more to the controversy and better explains why  decisions are made.

Next: Opinion: Harry Kane can guide England to the World Cup final

What do you think about VAR at the World Cup?

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