Benin Denied Clear Penalty After Blatant Handball by Chancel Mbemba
Benin were left furious after being denied a clear penalty following an obvious handball by Chancel Mbemba inside the penalty area, a decision that proved pivotal in a tense and controversial encounter.
The incident occurred during a crucial phase of the match as Benin pushed forward in search of a breakthrough. A driven ball into the box struck Mbemba’s arm, which was clearly extended away from his body. The contact stopped the ball’s path and immediately prompted appeals from Benin’s players, who surrounded the referee demanding a spot kick.
Despite the protests, play was waved on. To the disbelief of players and supporters alike, the decision was not overturned, even after VAR checks, intensifying frustration on the Benin bench and in the stands.
Replays showed little ambiguity. Mbemba’s arm was in an unnatural position, making his body bigger and directly blocking the ball. By the laws of the game, it met the criteria for a handball offense punishable by a penalty.
Benin’s coaching staff reacted angrily on the touchline, while players struggled to regain focus after what they believed was a decisive injustice. The moment shifted the momentum of the match and quickly became the dominant talking point afterward.
Pundits and fans were united in their reaction, with many describing the decision as a clear error and questioning the consistency of officiating. For Benin, it was a missed opportunity and a moment that may have significantly altered the outcome of the game.
As debate continues, the incident adds to growing scrutiny around refereeing standards and VAR intervention, with Benin feeling they were denied a fair chance at a crucial moment.
