Premier League release statement during Arsenal vs Leicester City after late decision

The Premier League have explained why VAR overturned the decision to rule out Kai Havertz’s late goal for offside as Arsenal made sure of the three points against Leicester City.

In what was a rollercoaster of a match for both teams, Arsenal took a two-goal lead into the half time break thanks to goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard. They may have been forgiven for thinking it was going to be a comfortable afternoon against winless Leicester.

But the second half proved to be anything but. James Justin halved the deficit after just two minutes of the second half, and the full-back was on the scoresheet again in the 63rd minute, a stunning volley drawing the Foxes level at 2-2.

It looked like Arsenal would be frustrated by Leicester goalkeeper Mads Hermansen and his back four. But corners proved to be key again, a 94th minute corner deflected off Wilfred Ndidi to send the Emirates Stadium mad and make the score 3-2.

Leicester made attacking substitutions as a last roll of the dice to get something from the game. And Arsenal were able to take advantage in the 98th minute, Kai Havertz had an open goal, but celebrations were cut short by the assistant referee’s flag.

After a VAR check, the goal was awarded. The Premier League have confirmed that the decision was overturned due to the ball being played by Justin.

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The Premier League Match centre on X (formerly Twitter), posted: “Havertz’s goal was disallowed for offside on-field. The VAR checked and confirmed that the ball was played to Havertz by the defender and recommended that the goal was awarded.”

The result moves Arsenal up to second in the table, on the same points with leaders Manchester City. Pep Guardiola’s side had to settle for a point against Newcastle United in the early kick-off.