Ex-Premier League referee: Man United star Cristiano Ronaldo victim of dreadful decision as controversial footage emerges
Man United star Cristiano Ronaldo was the victim of a “particularly harsh” handball decision during Portugal’s 4-0 win over the Czech Republic on Saturday (24 September), according to Keith Hackett.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Fifa and Premier League referee suggested that the decision proved the “handball law is a mess”.
As shown by the highlights on L’Equipe’s YouTube channel, at the end of the first half, the ball hit Ronaldo’s arm after a close-range header from West Ham’s Tomas Soucek.
The 37-year-old had the ball in front of his face to protect himself but after a VAR review, the Czech Republic were awarded a penalty.
Patrik Schick’s effort from the spot was saved and Portugal kept hold of their 2-0 lead.
“I thought this was a particularly harsh decision,” Hackett said after analysing the footage with Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“I do think this handball law is a mess. I don’t think he has any intentions of handling the ball, I think he’s protecting his face.
“But the referee sees it differently. They look at VAR and when they do that, they look for a penalty kick. Instead of ‘Why shouldn’t I give it?’ It’s ‘Ok, I’m going to give it’.
“On the face of it, it’s a harsh call.”
Ronaldo ended the game without a goal despite Portugal’s dominance and was also involved in a clash with the Czech Republic that left him with a bloodied shirt.
The forward has also not found the net for Man United in the Premier League this season in five appearances.
In other news, Man United have set their sights on signing an Aston Villa star and £45million will seal the deal.