Why Bayern Munich were denied a penalty vs PSG after João Neves handball in Champions League?

The incident has left plenty of room for debate on social media!

Bayern Munich were left frustrated during their clash against PSG after the referee waved away strong penalty appeals following a handball incident involving João Neves in the UEFA Champions League 2025-26 semi-final second leg.

PSG’s Vitinha attempted to clear the ball, which led to it striking Joao Neves from close range.

The controversial moment quickly sparked debate among fans and pundits, with many questioning why VAR did not to intervene despite clear contact between the ball and the midfielder’s arm.

Earlier in the first half, there was another handball decision that went against Bayern. Nuno Mendes could have been sent off for a second yellow card after what could have been deemed a deliberate handball, but the referee deemed it otherwise.

Both decisions were strongly protested by Bayern players and staff.

Here’s a closer look at the referee’s decision and the handball rules that explain why Bayern were ultimately denied a spot-kick that could have helped them get back in the match.

This is why João Neves handball wasn’t a penalty.

The laws of football say it’s not a handball if “hit on the hand/arm by the ball which has been played by a team-mate (unless the ball goes directly into the opponents’ goal or the player scores immediately afterwards, in which case a direct free kick is awarded to the other team)”.”

More to follow.

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