VAR Controversy in Konyaspor-Galatasaray Match: Experts Weigh In

The Konyaspor-Galatasaray match in the Turkish Süper Lig on February 22, 2026, was marked by a controversial VAR decision involving a disallowed Galatasaray goal. Former referees have offered differing opinions on whether VAR’s intervention was justified, sparking debate about the appropriate use of video review in football.

Disallowed Goal: A Matter of Interpretation

The incident occurred in the 50th minute when Leroy Sane scored for Galatasaray, but the goal was overturned after a VAR review for offside. The decision has drawn criticism from some, who argue that the offside call was subjective and that VAR should have allowed the goal to stand.

Expert Opinions on the Foul

Several former referees weighed in on a potential foul leading up to the disallowed goal. Bülent Yıldırım suggested that a foul could have been called, stating, “If the referee had called it a foul, I would respect that decision. I think it was a foul.” Bahattin Duran agreed, noting a careless movement by Boey, stating, “Boey, even unintentionally, commits a foul on Olaigbe. He fouls with both his left and right feet.” Deniz Çoban, however, indicated he would respect a decision to continue play, stating, “If the referee decided to continue play, I would agree with that.”

VAR Intervention: Was it Justified?

Bahattin Duran expressed the view that VAR should not have intervened, stating that the position was open to interpretation. He emphasized that the elements to support both the goal standing and the offside call existed, and that the on-field referee’s initial decision should have been respected. Deniz Çoban strongly agreed, stating there was a clear movement and impact, and that VAR’s non-intervention was 100% correct.

Other Controversial Calls

The match also featured other debated decisions. In the 14th minute, Bülent Yıldırım, Bahattin Duran, and Deniz Çoban all agreed that a foul call was correct, and the referee’s warning was appropriate. In the 16th minute, Duran believed a foul should have been called when Sara was allegedly held by Muleka, a sentiment echoed by Yıldırım. Regarding a potential foul on Sallai in the 18th and 23rd minutes, opinions were divided, with some suggesting a foul should have been called but acknowledging the referee’s discretion to allow play to continue.

Looking Ahead

The controversy surrounding the VAR decision in the Konyaspor-Galatasaray match highlights the ongoing debate about the role of video review in football. The differing opinions of experienced referees underscore the subjective nature of some calls and the need for clear guidelines on when VAR should intervene. As the Süper Lig season progresses, these discussions will likely continue to shape the application of VAR and its impact on the game.