Why Cody Gakpo’s goal for Liverpool was ruled out for offside

In a thrilling encounter between Liverpool and Aston Villa, Liverpool fans were left seething as Cody Gakpo’s goal was controversially ruled out for offside by VAR. The decision, which had significant implications for Liverpool’s Champions League aspirations, has since been explained by league officials.

Liverpool, seeking to apply pressure on Manchester United for the final Champions League spot, entered the match against Aston Villa with high hopes. Following their impressive victory over Leicester City, where Trent Alexander-Arnold’s remarkable goal had bolstered their confidence, Jurgen Klopp’s side was on a seven-game winning streak.

However, controversy marred Liverpool’s performance against Villa. In the 27th minute, Jacob Ramsey put Aston Villa in the lead, intensifying the stakes for Klopp’s men.

In the 55th minute, Cody Gakpo thought he had equalized for Liverpool after scoring from a corner. Yet, to Liverpool’s dismay, VAR intervened, ruling the goal out for offside due to Virgil van Dijk’s position in the build-up.

Ezri Konsa’s touch on the ball prior to Van Dijk’s involvement led many to argue that the Dutch defender was onside. Nevertheless, the Premier League clarified that the officials believed Konsa’s touch was unintentional, thus validating the offside decision.

The Premier League’s official account explained, “Cody Gakpo had the ball in the net earlier for Liverpool, but the goal was overturned due to Virgil Van Dijk being in an offside position during the build-up.

Van Dijk was in an offside position from Luis Diaz’s header. The VAR recommended a review, and referee John Brooks determined it was a deflection off Ezri Konsa, not a deliberate play.”

Liverpool fans were far from satisfied with the decision, particularly given its potential impact on their Champions League aspirations. Disgruntled supporters took to social media to express their frustration and disbelief, with many arguing that Konsa’s touch was intentional and should have resulted in a goal.

The controversial incident involving Gakpo and Konsa was not the only contentious moment in the match. Aston Villa’s defender was fortunate to escape a red card after a challenge on the Dutch forward, further fueling Liverpool fans’ discontent.

Despite the setback, Liverpool managed to salvage a point when Roberto Firmino scored a late goal in his final home game for the club. However, for Klopp’s side to secure a top-four finish, they now rely on Newcastle United or Manchester United losing their remaining two matches.

Liverpool’s recent disappointment adds another chapter to a season marked by contentious VAR decisions. Wolverhampton Wanderers’ fans might find a sense of irony in Liverpool’s outrage, as they were on the receiving end of a similar decision against the Reds earlier in the campaign.

As the Premier League season nears its climax, the contentious offside call involving Cody Gakpo continues to generate debate, leaving Liverpool fans hoping for a favorable turn of events in their bid for Champions League qualification.