EPL: Victor Ikpeba criticizes Arsenal for their contentious 1-0 victory over West Ham, saying “VAR is failing.”

Victor Ikpeba, a former Super Eagles striker, has criticized Arsenal after their controversial 1-0 victory over West Ham United on Sunday.

Ikpeba voiced his dislike of the Gunners’ physical tactics during set-piece situations as well as VAR.

With a hard-earned victory over West Ham United on Sunday night, Arsenal strengthened their position in the Premier League title battle. Leandro Trossard scored the game-winning goal at the London Stadium.

Callum Wilson appeared to have saved a dramatic equalizer for West Ham deep into stoppage time, but Trossard broke the deadlock in the 83rd minute, putting Arsenal on the path to a vital victory.

However, the Video Assistant Referee stepped in to evaluate the situation after David Raya, the goalkeeper for Arsenal, voiced strong objections.

Referee Chris Kavanagh disallowed the goal after a protracted review and a visit to the pitchside monitor because Pablo had committed a foul during the build-up.

Ikpeba criticized the protracted review procedure that nullified West Ham’s late equalizer and argued that Arsenal regularly avoids consequences for their aggressive style of play inside the box.

“VAR is failing to fulfill its intended purpose in the English Premier League,” Ikpeba stated on Monday Night Football on SuperSport. Arsenal is the team that participates in pushing and shoving more than any other.

In this case, it’s just a small touch because they threaten defenses without facing any repercussions. And for VAR to make a decision after five minutes…

According to the BBC, West Ham is anticipated to contact the Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO), the group that oversees referees, about the late equalizer against Arsenal that was disallowed.

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Taiwo Ayomide

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