Top-level soccer changed forever when the video assistant referee (VAR) was originally introduced in 2018. Five years later, VAR is still being discussed every week. The technology has split opinion among fans and pundits since its inception, but has VAR hindered, or helped soccer?

Was VAR a Necessity?

With so much money involved in the world of soccer these days; getting on-field decisions right has become more important than ever. Betting odds can sway on VAR decisions, and teams can be promoted or relegated due to a corrected call. VAR is used in all major competitions, including the 2023 UEFA Champions League final. Manchester City is the favorite at just -225 to win in normal time, while Inter Milan is priced at +550. For the most up to date odds, Paddy Power News discusses all things soccer, including VAR. With more and more incorrect decisions hindering the beautiful game; many felt something had to be done. Take the 2010 FIFA World Cup for example; Frank Lampard’s strike for England against Germany in a knockout game was not given; as a goal despite the ball being well over the line. That decision paved the way for goal-line technology; which was introduced two years later. Goal-line technology has been used in top-level leagues and international tournaments ever since.

What VAR Can Change on the Field

It is important to know that VAR cannot change every decision, as only the most contentious categories can be reviewed. Goals, penalties, red cards, and mistaken identity are the four decisions that can be overruled by VAR. The virtual assistant referee will check every goal no matter; what just in case something has been missed with the human eye in the build-up. Any match-changing situation that falls into the four categories is checked by video assistant referee. Before allowing or disallowing a goal; VAR will check whether the attacking team commits an offense; or if the ball has gone out of play. Offsides and handballs are also checked. With penalties, video assistant refereewill look for any encroachments from the outfield players and the goalkeeper.

VAR Controversy

VAR is still in its infancy, though several controversial video assistant referee moments have already occurred. One VAR example that stands out came in the 2018-19 Champions League quarter-final clash between Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur. In fact, two video assistant referee incidents caused controversy at the Etihad Stadium. Fernando Llorente netted for Tottenham but looked to have used his arm – the goal was given. Then right at the death, Raheem Sterling thought he had won it; but Sergio Aguero was adjudged to have been offside earlier in the move. Tottenham went on to reach the semi-finals. A 2018 FIFA World Cup group game between Portugal and Iran was also surrounded by VAR controversy. Cristiano Ronaldo won a reviewed VAR penalty which he missed. He later could have been sent off but was only shown a yellow instead of a red card. In injury time, VAR awarded Iran a penalty for a harsh handball. The Iranians scored and tied the game 1-1. VAR has come a long way in a relatively short space of time. We are seeing less controversial moments and quicker decisions; but it has left a bad taste in the mouth of some die-hard soccer fans. Is soccer better off without it, or has VAR changed the game for the better?