Full Breakdown
VAR Decision Disallows West Ham Equaliser in Arsenal Victory
5/13/2026, 12:44:31 AM
The Disallowed Equaliser: VAR Review and Decision
In stoppage time at London Stadium, Callum Wilson’s header appeared to equalise for West Ham United. VAR Darren England initiated a review; referee Chris Kavanagh, after consulting on-field monitor, ruled the goal out, citing a foul on Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya by West Ham substitute Pablo Felipe. The decision awarded Arsenal a 1-0 win.
Match Stakes
The result kept Arsenal within five points of league leaders Manchester City and extended their title lead, while West Ham’s missed point left them fighting relegation. Media described the call as “biggest VAR decision in Premier League history” because of its timing and impact.
Key Officials
Referee Chris Kavanagh oversaw the on-field decision; VAR Darren England and assistant VAR Akil Howson managed replay analysis. PGMOL chief Howard Webb defended the ruling, while former referee Chris Foy praised the officials’ teamwork.
Data Summary
Final score: Arsenal 1 – 0 West Ham. VAR review lasted three minutes. West Ham number 19 (Pablo Felipe) was identified as the offender. Arsenal moved to within five points of Manchester City.
Official Statements & Responses
Former referee Chris Foy said the officials “got the decision right” and highlighted coordination between England and Kavanagh. Howard Webb affirmed the foul, describing it as “categorically a goalkeeper foul.” Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised the referee and VAR for their “courage.” West Ham manager Roberto De Zerbi warned that “pressure” from previous day’s controversy may have affected subsequent officiating.
Criticism & Opposition
Former players Peter Schmeichel and Shay Given argued the goal should have stood, saying Raya could have recovered without a foul. Critics noted the three-minute VAR check disrupted the game’s flow and questioned consistency of foul interpretation in crowded penalty areas.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Officials described the contact as “material” and a clear foul, while some commentators felt the arm-hold was insufficient to impede Raya. Reports differ on exact length of the VAR review, with some citing “near three minutes” and others noting a “lengthy” check.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It has generated a lot of debate, a lot of discussion, a lot of noise, but they got the decision right,” — Chris Foy, former referee
- “VAR: Is it impactful on the goalkeeper that, for me.” — Howard Webb, PGMOL chief refereeing officer
- “The referee and the VAR today had a lot of courage to stop and analyse the action and give the opportunity to the referee to make the call,” — Mikel Arteta, Arsenal manager
- “Maybe they suffered the pressure of yesterday, the West Ham-Arsenal game and VAR.” — Roberto De Zerbi, West Ham manager
Upcoming Implications
West Ham have written to PGMO seeking clarification. VAR official Darren England will referee the FA Cup final between Chelsea and Manchester City, raising questions about potential “baggage.” Arsenal’s next matches against Burnley and Crystal Palace will be crucial for their title bid.
