A referee sparked chaotic scenes in Bolivia after appearing to award a controversial penalty using VAR, despite the technology not being available in the division. The penalty kick, given right at the death in a clash between top-flight sides Club Always Ready and Bolivar, was awarded by referee Raul Orosco after consultation with the fourth official.
But footage has now emerged of the moment he mistakenly used the VAR gesture as an explanation for the decision. Referee Orosco does appear to realize his mistake mid-way through the gesture, although the last-gasp reprieve for the hosts just moments before the final whistle wasn't overturned. Outrage from Bolivar's players then forced riot police to intervene on the pitch and defuse the situation. But with the visitors still understandably enraged, Club Always Ready's William Ferreira squandered the golden opportunity to level from the spot after striking the right-hand post. Bolivar then rode out the final few moments to cling on to their incident-packed victory and clean sheet. The dismal officiating continued, however, as replays showed the penalty should have been retaken after a clear encroachment in the box during Ferreira's run up. Currently, VAR is only used in the Brazilian top flight in South America.
Source: Daily Mail
