West Ham lost their Europa League last 16 first leg tie to Freiburg, beaten 1-0 in Germany, but there was late VAR drama that denied the Hammers a penalty.
The Hammers had looked comfortable for much of the game, but a lapse in concentration saw them behind in the 81st minute after Michael Gregoritsch tapped the hosts ahead.
West Ham were given the glimpse of a lifeline late in added time. Tomas Soucek attempted to hook the ball over the top of Noah Weisshaupt and saw the ball hit the young defender’s raised arm.
But after four minutes of VAR review, the referee – who had been sent to the monitor – stuck with his original decision to not award the spot kick. West Ham captain Kurt Zouma and manager David Moyes were both seen discussing the incident with the referee at full-time.
It gives the Londoners everything to do in next week’s second leg at the London Stadium – the fourth time the two teams will play each other this season, after also meeting in the Europa League group stages.
More to follow…
What’s next for Freiburg and West Ham?
Freiburg head to VfL Bochum on Sunday in the Bundesliga; kick-off 2.30pm.
West Ham host Burnley in the Premier League on Sunday; kick-off 2pm. Watch free highlights of the game shortly after the game on Sky Sports‘ digital platforms.
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