The 2025 Copa Libertadores was once again marked by controversy, this time in the second leg between Racing Club and Vélez Sarsfield at the Estadio Presidente Perón. In a tense encounter, technology took center stage after disallowing a visiting goal that could have changed the fate of the tie.

The goal that wasn’t and VAR’s interventio

Midway through the second half, Vélez seemed to have found a lifeline to spark hopes of a comeback. After a powerful volley and a weak response from goalkeeper Facundo Cambeses, the ball edged dangerously close to the goal line. At first, the referee awarded the goal, sparking euphoria among the visiting side.

However, the celebration lasted only a few seconds. The VAR team reviewed the play carefully and determined that the ball had not completely crossed the line. Under FIFA rules, the goal was invalidated, igniting protests from Vélez players and frustration among their fans.

The scene left an image of disbelief: while the visiting players angrily protested, the referee stuck to his decision, backed by the technology. What could have been a turning point in the tie ended up as a moment of frustration and debate.

Racing capitalize and advance to the semifinals

The psychological blow was evident for Vélez, who lost momentum in the closing minutes. Racing, on the other hand, sealed their advantage with a goal from Santiago Solari in the 82nd minute, securing a 1-0 win in the second leg and a 2-0 aggregate score that sends them into the Copa Libertadores semifinals.

Solari’s strike was celebrated as the perfect finishing touch to a tie that ultimately favored the Avellaneda side, though clouded by refereeing controversy. For Gustavo Costas’ men, the qualification is further proof of their strength in the tournament, while for Vélez the elimination leaves a bitter taste and the feeling that VAR stole away their chance at a comeback.

A debate that remains open

The incident reignites the discussion over the precision and limits of technology in South American football. While the decision was correct under the rules, many fans and analysts question whether the spirit of the game is harmed by such razor-thin calls.

Once again, the Libertadores provides spectacle both on and off the pitch, with Vélez’s disallowed goal sure to be remembered as one of the most hotly debated moments of this edition.