Late Controversy in Champions League Clash: Inter's Coach Challenges Liverpool's Late Penalty

Match Recap

Inter Milan coach Cristian Kivo believes Liverpool's Florian Fritz dived to win a penalty in Tuesday's clash, but argues his side were hurt more by injuries to two of their stars in the first half.

Liverpool won 1-0 at Inter, courtesy of a penalty won by the substitute Vertz and converted by Szoboszlai in the 88th minute, in the sixth round of the group stage of the Champions League.

Late Penalty and Final Verdict

VAR stole the show when the referee was summoned to award a late penalty amid heavy protests from Inter.

Kivo said after the match that a draw was the right result given how the game went; Inter had not enough energy in the first half and struggled with the visitors' pressure, but they found a way to trouble them.

He added that two substitutions due to injuries had drained their energy in the second half.

Reactions and Reflections

Regarding the penalty incident, the Nerazzurri boss hinted Vertz had taken a tumble to win it. 'I rarely comment on refereeing decisions; I speak about education and what we should teach the fans, especially in the Champions League. The referee was in a good position to see the incident in full and decided it did not merit a penalty.'

He continued: 'When the Video Assistant Referee steps in, it should understand the game's dynamics. We have to accept the decisions, learn to combat injustice, and be more careful so we can focus on what we can do.'

Paladino, Atalanta coach, watched clips on Sky Italia after their win over Chelsea tonight and called Liverpool's penalty non-existent.

In response, Kivo smiled: No comment.

Punchline: If penalties were a lottery, VAR would always buy the jackpot. Punchline 2: My Wi‑Fi at the stadium is so bad that even the ball can't decide who to kick.