Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has weighed in on his side’s possible penalty kick decision in their 1-0 defeat to Premier League champions Arsenal on Sunday.
The Gunners sealed their first win at Anfield in 14 years after a first half goal from German forward Kai Havertz sealed the victory that moved them back to the top of the standings.
However, one major controversy in the encounter came in the 21st minute after Liverpool were denied a possible penalty kick few minutes after the North London side had taken the lead.
Bradley Barcola delivered a teasing cross into the area for Alexander Isak, but the Swedish forward had his shirt pulled by Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber.
The referee did not spot the foul and VAR also failed to intervene, with Iraola unhappy with the decision in his post-match interview.
“The Alex Isak one is a clear penalty. You hold the shirt; we can all see that he holds the shirt. The ball just goes one centimetre in front of Alex”, Iraola said post-match.
“The fact that you are even asking me that he should have gone to the floor, that’s the thing. If he goes to the floor, they call the penalty. They call the penalty 100 per cent.”
Arsenal moved three points clear at the top of the standings with the narrow victory and are now in pole position to defend their league crown.
Liverpool, meanwhile, saw their recent run of form end with the defeat and remain fifth on the standings, nine points off the top.
“Yes, definitely. Alex is honest, he plays for the goal. It’s a clear, clear pull”, Iraola concluded.
Liverpool will need to move on quickly from the defeat to Arsenal when they return to action in the UEFA Champions League.
The Reds visit Istanbul to face Fenerbahce as they aim to continue their perfect start to the European season.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
