Fans have heavily condemned the decision to allow Gabriel Jesus' second goal for Arsenal against Crystal Palace, with the Brazilian appearing to be narrowly offside.
Jesus had started the match to end a long-term goal drought for the Gunners.
The Brazilian ended his barren run in stunning fashion, scoring a second-half hat-trick to help Mikel Arteta's side reach the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup.
Jesus scored his first goal at the Emirates Stadium since December 17 last year, canceling out Jean-Philippe Mateta's early strike for the visitors.
His second goal proved controversial as the striker appeared to be in an offside position when he was played through by Bukayo Saka in the 73rd minute.
Jesus beat Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson to put the Gunners ahead for the first time, but fans insisted on social media that his effort should have been disallowed.
The alleged foul went unnoticed by the linesman and the goal was allowed to stand while VAR was not in use until the semi-final of the competition.
“The linesman had a CLEAR view but STILL couldn't see that Gabriel Jesus was OUTSIDE!”, one fan complained on social media.
'Anyone with eyes can see that Gabriel Jesus was clearly offside before he scored. Arsenal can consider themselves extremely lucky here,” said another.
'It's almost as if these officials have forgotten how to do their job without VAR.'
'Hahahahah Jesus is miles offside, but of course there is no VAR, so Arsenal continue. Absolutely disgraceful refereeing,” said a third.
Jesus would then claim the match ball by adding a third for Arsenal in the 81st minute.
The Gunners endured a nervous finish to the match after their former striker Eddie Nketiah pulled a goal back five minutes from time.
Arsenal would eventually seal a 3–2 win and book a place in the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup.
Arteta's side will discover their final four opponents on Thursday, with the draw taking place after Tottenham's quarter-final against Manchester United.
The three quarter-finals were decided on Wednesday, with Newcastle and Liverpool joining Arsenal in the last four.
Newcastle recorded a 3-1 win over Brentford, while Liverpool recorded a 2-1 win against Southampton.
Comments