The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) team for the game between Nigeria and Algeria have replied to claims made by the North Africans that they were denied a clear penalty in the course of the 0-2 defeat in yesterday’s quarter final.
Algeria are claiming that the ball came off the hands of Semi Ajayi in the box, before Nigeria scored the goals that earned them a well deserved win.
Officials and players of the Algerian team cited the incident as a game changer in the tie. A sentiment which prompted the FA to file an official complaint demanding an explanation behind the decision not to award them a penalty.
We can exclusively reveal that they were told in clear terms that the incident was checked and cleared after noticing that the ball came off the thigh of Semi Ajayi, before hitting his hand as he attempt to cut out a cross.
Their explanation is in line with the revised hand ball rule by world football governing body FIFA.
