Overview
- Arsenal head coach Renée Slegers questioned the handball ruling on Stina Blackstenius’ disallowed goal and said VAR is needed to ensure justice in major fixtures.
- Alessia Russo’s late equaliser was allowed despite an offside in the build-up, while Frida Maanum’s stoppage-time finish was ruled offside after replays suggested she was level.
- ESPN reported that Victoria Pelova’s studs-up challenge on Keira Walsh drew only a yellow card and likely would have been upgraded to red with video review.
- Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor avoided detailed criticism but reiterated her support for bringing VAR and goal-line technology into the women’s game.
- The high-profile match ended 1-1 and, after eight league games, left Arsenal five points back of Chelsea as scrutiny of WSL officiating standards escalated.