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Arsenal's Magalhaes Escapes Red Card in City's Win

4/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Arsenal's Gabriel Magalhaes narrowly avoided a red card in the 83rd-minute clash with Manchester City's Erling Haaland during a 2-1 loss.
Both players received yellow cards in the incident.
Former referee Mike Dean said Magalhaes was "very lucky" not to be sent off, after VAR confirmed the decision.
Manchester City's victory leaves them three points behind Arsenal, with a game in hand against Burnley.

History

Historical Context

The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system was officially integrated into football in 2018, following trials since 2012. Its debut at the 2018 FIFA World Cup saw a 99.3% success rate in correcting decisions. However, VAR has faced criticism for inconsistencies and confusion, particularly highlighted by controversial calls in the Premier League, such as the disallowed goal in the 2023 Tottenham vs. Liverpool match.

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Story summary

Arsenal's Gabriel Magalhaes narrowly avoided a red card in the 83rd-minute clash with Manchester City's Erling Haaland during a 2-1 loss.
Both players received yellow cards in the incident.
Former referee Mike Dean said Magalhaes was "very lucky" not to be sent off, after VAR confirmed the decision.
Manchester City's victory leaves them three points behind Arsenal, with a game in hand against Burnley.

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