Jose Mourinho criticizes VAR decisions in Fenerbahce’s victory
Fenerbahce head coach Jose Mourinho holds a press conference prior to Fenerbahce vs Union Saint-Gilloise match at Fenerbahce Can Bartu Facilities in Istanbul, Türkiye on September 25, 2024. (AA Photo)
Fenerbahce head coach Jose Mourinho expressed his concerns over VAR decisions following his team’s 2-0 victory against Antalyaspor in the 7th week of the Turkish Trendyol Super Lig on September 29.
The match, held at Corendon Airlines Park Antalya Stadium, saw Fenerbahce secure the win through a goal from Dusan Tadic and an own goal by Antalyaspor’s Thalisson Kelven.
Mourinho’s post-match remarks
During the post-match press conference, Mourinho shared his thoughts on the match, stating that his team performed better in the second half. “The players understood what they wanted to do and played more simply, showing a better performance,” he said.
However, Mourinho’s main frustration came from VAR decisions during the match. The Portuguese manager questioned the accuracy of the VAR review, particularly in relation to a disallowed goal for his team. He stated, “I like good VAR. For me it doesn’t matter if it is Turkish or if it is from another nationality. I just want a VAR that helps the referee to take the right decisions.”
Mourinho said, “There are many doubtful situations in the game. Many. Since minute one until a possible penalty on Dzeko, until a second yellow card by the elbow on Tadic, by this Dzeko goal. There are many doubtful situations. But I live with you. I just had that reaction in a calm way. But the referee with me decided to give me a yellow card. It’s OK.”
Mourinho’s reaction and yellow card
Mourinho responded to a disallowed goal by placing a laptop in front of the camera, showing footage from his team’s tactical camera. “The left back was in position. For us, it is a good goal,” he said, while adding that the VAR may not have reviewed the same angle.
The manager also mentioned several other questionable decisions, including a potential penalty on striker Edin Dzeko and a second yellow card for an elbow on Tadic. Despite his calm reaction, Mourinho was shown a yellow card by the referee. “I didn’t say a single word or put pressure, but the referee gave me a yellow card. It’s OK,” he remarked.
