According to a report by Evening Standard on Sunday, November 1, 2026, during their Premier League match against Arsenal at Anfield, Liverpool were left fuming because video assistant referees chose not to give them a penalty.

It seemed like Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber tugged on Alexander Isak's shirt inside the penalty area in the 21st minute, which led to the contentious incident.

Referee Andy Madley declined to indicate the penalty spot, denying Liverpool a chance to equalize after they had fallen behind to a goal by Kai Havertz.

As the Liverpool striker tried to connect with a risky free-kick cross, replays showed Timber clutching Isak's shirt. It looked like the Swedish international was unable to get to the ball and score because of the collision.

The referee let play to continue despite Liverpool's protests, and video assistant referees reviewed the incident but chose not to reverse the on-field decision.

In their halftime analysis, multiple Sky Sports pundits criticized the decision. Former Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge was among those who believed the officials had erred.

Isak could have made more contact to draw the referee's attention, according to Sturridge, but Timber's shirt pull was clear and should have led to a penalty.

The decision had a positive impact on Arsenal, according to Ian Wright, a former player for the club.

For the officials to notice the violation, Wright insisted that Isak shouldn't have inflated the incident or gone to ground on purpose. The defender's pull, he said, was enough to deflect the striker's effort toward the crossbar.

Jamie Carragher, a former Liverpool defender, shared the same criticism of the VAR decision. He questioned why the officials did not step in when the contact stopped the top scorer in the Premier League from trying a close-range header.

There was no need for the striker to make a dramatic reaction, according to Carragher, because Isak had been hauled back about seven yards from goal. Therefore, a penalty should have been given.

Additionally, he slammed the VAR officials, saying they ought to have stepped in after analyzing the situation.

Liverpool head coach After the game, Andoni Iraola voiced his displeasure as well, calling the incident involving Isak a penalty.

Liverpool tried to find an equalizer after the controversial decision, but Arsenal held on to their lead and won 1-0 at Anfield.