givemesport.com

Why Spain were given penalty against France despite Lamine Yamal handball before Aston Villa…

Former FIFA referee and rules expert Christina Unkel has cast her verdict on whether Spain deserved their first-half penalty against France in the World Cup semi-final on Tuesday night.

While Lucas Digne clearly kicked Lamine Yamal in the penalty box, there has been some speculation over whether the teenage sensation actually handled the ball in the same incident as he fell to ground.

No retrospective action can be taken now that Mikel Oyazarbal converted the penalty in the 22nd minute, but it may remain a talking point should La Roja defend their lead and book a place in Sunday evening's final at MetLife Stadium.

Former Referee Explains Why Yamal's Penalty Was Allowed To Stand

Lucas Digne and Lamine Yamal

After analysing the footage, Unkel explained, during ITV's live coverage (watch the incident below):

"The actual point of contact was on a part of the sleeve on Yamal, therefore it would not be considered an offence. As for the original decision for penalty, it should stand.

"Unfortunately, this is a similar incident to the one with Harry Kane, where a player has already committed to the challenge - however, they still have this onus and opportunity to avoid contact."

More to follow...

Read full news in source page