Newcastle United earned a 1-1 draw with PSG in their final Champions League group-stage match, but controversy struck early in the French capital.
The Magpies conceded a penalty within minutes at the Parc des Princes, following a handball call against wingback Lewis Miley.
Referee Slavko Vincic initially ruled no penalty, but VAR recommended a review, leading to a spot-kick for PSG. Unlike past incidents, Nick Pope quickly denied Ousmane Dembele from the spot, keeping the score level. Moments later, Vitinha scored for PSG, only for Joe Willock to equalise just before halftime.
TV cameras captured Newcastle players and staff visibly frustrated in the tunnel after the decision, as well as over a handball by Marquinhos later in the first half which they believed deserved a penalty.
Dan Burn and assistant Jason Tindall were seen confronting the official, pointing out the similarities between the incidents and questioning the inconsistent application of the rules.
TNT Sports broadcast the footage in the UK, with former Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given offering his analysis. He criticised the early penalty, saying it struck Barcola’s arm before Miley’s and that Miley’s movement was natural.
He stressed that the team’s frustration stemmed from a lack of consistency in officiating, noting similar situations were handled differently.
Newcastle’s draw means they will now contest a two-legged play-off next month to qualify for the Champions League last 16.
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