Leah Williamson Penalty Call Against Arsenal Follows IFAB Rules
· Sports · BBC Sport
Arsenal defender Leah Williamson conceded a penalty in a 2-2 Women's Champions League draw against Paris FC after handling a ball she mistakenly believed was not in play. The incident occurred in the French capital when goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez played a short goal-kick that was already live on the pitch. Under Law 16 of the International Football Association Board, the goal-kick was considered taken the moment the ball was kicked by a defender within the goal area. Maeline Mendy converted the resulting penalty, denying Arsenal a victory that would have placed them second in their group. Similar errors have previously occurred in the Champions League, including incidents involving Tyrone Mings and Gabriel.
Why it matters
The decision highlights the strict application of IFAB laws regarding goal-kick restarts, which can significantly alter match outcomes in high-stakes European football.
Read the original report — BBC Sport
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