‘It’s Not a Penalty’ — Kasper Hjulmand Blasts Ref After Arsenal F.C. Decision in UEFA Champions League

Bayer Leverkusen manager, Kasper Hjulmand, has criticized Turkish referee, Umut Meler for awarding Arsenal a penalty in their 1-1 draw in the Champions League on Wednesday night.

The Bundesliga side seemed to be heading to a victory at home, thanks to Robert Andrich’s header in the second half.

But Meler pointed to the spot in the 86th minute, following Malik Tillman’s challenge on Noni Madueke.

Ex-Leverkusen forward, Kai Havertz, stepped up and equalized from the spot for Arsenal.

“For me it is not a penalty,” Hjulmand said.

“Sometimes the referee shouldn’t blow the whistle and then check with the VAR. Then it is 100 percent safe and secure.

“If he whistles, it is not [a] clear and obvious [mistake] so it stays.”