Former referee Luca Marelli has voiced strong criticism regarding several contentious officiating decisions during the recent Serie A match where Juventus drew 1-1 with Hellas Verona. The game featured disputed incidents, including a soft penalty awarded against Juventus and a challenge that many believed should have resulted in a red card for a Verona player.
Controversial Penalty Decision for Verona
Verona`s equalizing goal came from a penalty kick after Francisco Conceicao had put Juventus ahead. The penalty was awarded for a handball by Juventus`s wing-back Joao Mario, a decision Marelli deemed overly harsh. According to Marelli, who shared his analysis with DAZN, the VAR review highlighted Joao Mario`s reaction – closing his eyes as the ball unexpectedly dropped. Marelli argued that this was an “unexpected ball” and should not have been penalized, as the player could not have anticipated its trajectory. Juventus coach Igor Tudor also expressed his disagreement with the call.
Lack of Red Card for Orban
Another significant point of contention involved Verona`s goal-scorer, Gift Orban, who appeared to make contact with an elbow to the face of Juventus defender Federico Gatti. Despite referee Rapuano issuing a yellow card, VAR chose not to intervene. Marelli was adamant that a red card would have been the correct decision. He noted that Orban seemed to be aiming for Gatti`s head, even though the blow also grazed the shoulder. Marelli concluded that the yellow card was a lenient punishment for what could have been deemed violent conduct, particularly if Orban had used a closed fist.
Ultimately, a visibly fatigued Juventus managed to secure a draw, partly due to a favorable VAR decision in the second half that disallowed a potential Verona goal for offside, sparing the Bianconeri further complications.
