Story perspectives

Guardiola Slams VAR After City's Semi-Final Win

1/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Pep Guardiola expressed frustration with VAR after Manchester City's 2-0 Carabao Cup semi-final win over Newcastle, noting a six-minute review that disallowed Antoine Semenyo's second goal for a marginal offside on Erling Haaland.
Guardiola questioned VAR consistency, recalling penalties City had denied in Newcastle games.
He said the review was unnecessary and called for an explanation from Howard Webb.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe acknowledged the challenge of second leg.

History

Historical Context

FIFA approved Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in 2012 to address controversies like disallowed goals during the 2010 World Cup. Despite its implementation at the 2018 World Cup, where it was credited with a 99.3% success rate, VAR has faced criticism for inconsistent application and lack of clarity, as seen in recent matches involving Manchester City and Newcastle.

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Story summary

Pep Guardiola expressed frustration with VAR after Manchester City's 2-0 Carabao Cup semi-final win over Newcastle, noting a six-minute review that disallowed Antoine Semenyo's second goal for a marginal offside on Erling Haaland.
Guardiola questioned VAR consistency, recalling penalties City had denied in Newcastle games.
He said the review was unnecessary and called for an explanation from Howard Webb.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe acknowledged the challenge of second leg.

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