VAR Decision on Coco’s Handball in Atalanta-Torino Match Sparks Debate

The Atalanta-Torino match saw a controversial moment when a potential handball by Saul Coco in Torino’s penalty area was not given as a penalty. This decision sparked intense reactions, particularly from Atalanta’s coach Gian Piero Gasperini, who voiced strong protests after the game.

While Coco’s arm appeared to be in a wide position, VAR officials deemed it appropriate given the close proximity of the ball. Experts weighed in on the decision:

Tommasi argued, “In our view, it’s not a penalty. The defender’s movement was natural in his attempt to block. We can’t expect defenders to keep their arms behind their backs in an unnatural position.”

Parolo countered, “Defenders are starting to defend with their hands behind their backs when they have time. It might lead to everyone crouching down to occupy more space. Consider the penalty given against Monza when the ball was heading towards the stands, not even on target.”

Tommasi further explained, “If a player makes themselves bigger deliberately, then yes, it’s a penalty. But here, we have a close-range situation and a natural position. We’ve never instructed players to defend with their hands behind their backs. The natural approach to blocking still applies. Have you ever seen this in European matches? No, and we use the same standards here.”