Mateus Fernandes appeared to escape punishment for a suspected handball during Tottenham’s goalless Premier League meeting with Leeds United at Elland Road, despite the incident being checked by VAR.
The Tottenham midfielder jumped towards the ball with his arm extended, seemingly blocking it inside the area. The available angle was not conclusive, however, and it remained unclear whether the ball struck his shoulder or a lower part of his arm.
No penalty was awarded to Leeds, leaving the home side without the early advantage the incident might have provided. The decision is likely to attract scrutiny if Tottenham go on to win a closely contested match.
Leeds and Tottenham remain evenly matched
Fernandes has made a positive impression since joining Tottenham from West Ham United during the summer, but the moment represented a potentially costly lapse in judgement.
With the score still 0-0, both sides had looked evenly matched at Elland Road. Tottenham have been in improved form recently, while Leeds remain capable of making the most of home advantage, ensuring the match was far from settled.
