Aymeric Laporte ‘unlucky’ as Man City controversy analysed – Campbell
Man City defender Aymeric Laporte was “unlucky” to be penalised for handball against Real Madrid, according to Kevin Campbell.
The ex-Premier League striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, said “common sense” could have prevailed at the Etihad even though the decision was “understandable.”
Pep Guardiola’s side beat Real Madrid 4-3 on Tuesday night in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.
The visitors last goal came via the penalty spot after Laporte was adjudged to have handled the ball from a Toni Kroos free-kick on the 80-minute mark.
VAR checked referee Istvan Kovacs’ decision and chose not to intervene.
When asked by Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs for his analysis of the incident, Campbell said: “If it is not given for common sense purposes, you understand it.
“It is an unfortunate one when you look at it. By the same token, if it is given, and of course it was, you understand the referees reason why. I think he was a bit unlucky but by the letter of the law it is a handball.
“His arm was in an unnatural position. I know why the referee gave it.
“That decision just makes it really interesting next week. There’s only one goal in it and that makes it all to play for really.”
Speaking on his side’s performance, Pep Guardiola told club media: “We were there all the time and had to defend well.
“I’ve no complaints about the result or the goals – nothing – I’m very proud.”
In other news, Man City tipped to sanction ‘phenomenal’ 25-year-old’s exit after latest on Erling Haaland.