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PSG-Newcastle Drama: Late penalty ignites controversy and uproar

Following their draw after a controversial penalty for PSG in their clash against Newcastle (Champions League group stage, Matchday 5), the English media exploded in shouts of protest.

By Farah Ben Gamra

Paris Saint-Germain vs. Newcastle United FC: Group F: UEFA Champions League 2023/24
Paris Saint-Germain vs. Newcastle United FC: Group F: UEFA Champions League 2023/24 / Sebastian Frej/MB Media/GettyImages
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English Outcry: 'Magpies Robbed'
A last-minute penalty against visiting Newcastle gave PSG a 1-1 draw and produced much criticism from British media calling it an injustice. The English media expressed discontent with the penalty decision with headlines underlining the impression that Newcastle "got robbed." A further question on the consistency of VAR decisions was raised by The Telegraph, stirring further debate.

Newcastle legend Alan Shearer had harsh words on the decision. Such feelings are echoed all over. Online platforms like The Sun contributed to the discussion with a headline cleverly referencing Kylian Mbappé's involvement in the controversial penalty, labeled "Kylling the Game." Ally McCoist and Jermaine Jenas, TNT Sport’s football pundits, are furious about it and call it a"shame and a disgrace.” Moreover, Jermaine Jenas, in particular, wonders why Tino Livramento received such a decision. And Eddie Howe, in essence, says he feels sorry for his boys.

Diving into the controversy
Many pivotal events are considered in the examination of the match. Despite being behind on their home turf against Newcastle, the capital club salvaged a point in the final moments thanks to a penalty converted by the French international (1-1). Walking a tightrope after Alexander Isak's opening goal, facing a successful opponent that delivered an almost perfect defensive performance, and with a stellar Nick Pope, PSG will determine its Champions League future in the last matchday in two weeks against Dortmund at Signal Iduna Park.

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On Wednesday morning, the day after the match, we learned from SkySports that the VAR referee for the PSG - Newcastle clash has been replaced, originally scheduled for tonight in the Champions League. The contentious last-second penalty given to PSG against Newcastle remains a topic of debate. UEFA's choice to sideline VAR assistant Tomasz Kwiatkowski, set to officiate tonight's Real Sociedad vs. RB Salzburg match, amplifies discussions with no official reason from UEFA, further fueling controversy.