Arsenal Lewis-Skelly
(Credit: Imago and TNT Sports)
Keith Hackett
Thu 8 May 2025 7:30, UK
Keith Hackett has given his verdict on the penalty conceded by Arsenal full-back Myles Lewis-Skelly during his side’s Champions League clash with PSG.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that a spot kick should not have been awarded against the Gunners ace for handball in that game.
In what has been his breakthrough season at senior level, Lewis-Skelly has been on the end of some contentious calls with Arsenal.
On Wednesday (7 May), there was another such incident as Mikel Arteta‘s side travelled to the French capital to face PSG in the second leg of their Champions League semi final.
Keith Hackett
Keith Hackett has reacted to a key refereeing decision in PSG vs Arsenal
Myles Lewis-Skelly handball call slammed
Arsenal went into that game looking to overturn a 1-0 deficit to PSG from the first leg at the Emirates Stadium the previous week.
However, Arsenal trailed 1-0 on the night and 2-0 on aggregate at half time in this match, following a deflected half-volley from Fabian Ruiz.
MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES
Midway though the second half, the French champions were then given the chances to extend their lead when a shot from Achraf Hakimi hit the arm of Lewis-Skelly as he attempted to block the effort.
Myles Lewis-Skelly vs PSG Total (SofaScore)
Accurate Passes 12/13
Duels Won 2/5
Clearances 0
Interceptions 0
Blocked Shots 1
Fouls 0
Initially referee Felix Zwayer did not award a penalty, only to change his mind and give a spot kick after VAR recommended an on-field review.
Speaking while commentating on the game for TNT Sports, former Arsenal defender Martin Keown described the decision as “ridiculous”, a verdict Hackett has now supported.
‘Arsenal unlucky after extreme VAR intervention’ – Keith Hackett
After being asked by Football Insider what he made of that penalty award and that observation from Keown, the former referee said:
“I find myself agreeing with Martin Keown on this one. This is taking the handball law to the extreme and I do not see how the VAR and referee can that this incident should be penalised.
“Was it deliberate? I think not.”
David Raya would save the resulting penalty from Vitinha, only for the hosts to score through Hakimi moments later anyway.
That set PSG on their way to a 3-1 aggregate win over Arsenal that secures their place in the final against Inter Milan at the end of this month, and ends the Gunners’ trophy hopes for another season.
Related Posts