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VAR to be in use for the Republic of Ireland's remaining World Cup qualifiers

UEFA has confirmed that VAR will be in operation for the remaining World Cup qualifiers under their...


VAR to be in use for the Repub...

Sport

VAR to be in use for the Republic of Ireland's remaining World Cup qualifiers


UEFA has confirmed that VAR will be in operation for the remaining World Cup qualifiers under their jurisdiction. 

It means the Video Assistant Referee system will be in use for the Republic of Ireland's games away to Portugal and at home to both Serbia and Azerbaijan next month.

VAR's introduction comes perhaps a tad late for Ireland manager Stephen Kenny, who was left fuming when a clear-looking foul on Aaron Connolly in Belgrade wasn't able to be reviewed.

Ireland lost the game away to Serbia 3-2, but it could have been much different had a penalty been awarded.

"I think Aaron Connolly, it looks like a cast iron penalty anyway to make it 2-1," Kenny told RTÉ after the match.

"The player has gone through him to win the ball, it's an easy option to give the corner rather than give the penalty.

"How could there not be VAR if there is for some matches and not others, I don't understand."

UEFA say, "The initial plans to start using VAR in UEFA national team qualification competitions were postponed due to the logistical complications and risks associated with the COVD-19 pandemic."

In a statement, they add, "The VAR implementation, which is being organised by UEFA, will be carried out on site at the stadium of the host association, with the use of specific vans supplied by the UEFA VAR providers."

Ireland go into September's trio of matches without a point, following that defeat in Belgrade and a shock loss at home to Luxembourg.

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Ireland Qatar 2022 Republic Of Ireland Stephen Kenny VAR World Cup World Cup Qualifiers

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