New Delhi: Premier League has released a formal statement about the contentious penalty incident involving William Saliba. This incident became the standout moment of matchday 20, following Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion. The game at the Amex Stadium was closely contested, with both teams pushing hard for a favourable outcome. However, the controversial penalty decision surrounding Saliba turned out to be the highlight of discussions in the aftermath of the match.
Mikel Arteta’s side took the lead in the 16th minute as Ethan Nwaneri struck a brilliant goal but in the second half, things took a turn for the worse for the Gunners when Brighton were awarded a penalty after a clash of heads between William Saliba and Joao Pedro in the Arsenal penalty area. Referee Anthony Taylor pointed to the spot and VAR didn’t overturn the decision. Joao Pedro then stepped to take on the penalty and made no error, earning the Seagulls a deserved point in the south coast.
The ball literally hits Saliba’s head? 🤯 pic.twitter.com/w4alk6dvBn
— EPL Bible (@EPLBible) January 4, 2025
The decision seemed to split the internet, with Arsenal fans reacting furiously, but the decision was double-checked by VAR. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta also showed his disappointment at the decision by calling it “bizarre”. After the match, an official statement was released by the Premier League stating that there was sufficient contact between Saliba and Pedro to grant a penalty.
#BHAARS – 58’
The referee’s call of penalty for a foul by Saliba on João Pedro was checked and confirmed by VAR, who deemed there was sufficient contact for a penalty.
— Premier League Match Centre (@PLMatchCentre) January 4, 2025
Impact of Saliba’s penalty on Arsenal’s title hopes
The dropped points are a major blow to Mikel Arteta’s side’s title aspirations. They are now five points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, who will play Manchester United on Sunday and also have one extra game in hand.
Premier League explains William Saliba penalty in Arsenal-Brighton draw; Arsenal drops points, impacting title race as Liverpool pulls ahead. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
